Utah Utes
Current Record 4-0
Have the week off to gloat in the big victory over Oregon and to rub the noses of BYU fans in it. I'd feel better, and I am sure Kyle Whittingham agrees with me, if they were more concerned about California than that team in Provo.
Probable Wins:
California
Arizona State
Oregon State
Washington
Colorado
Toss Up:
USC
Arizona
UCLA
Optimists Prediction: 12-0--CFP
Pessimists Prediction: 9-3--Foster Farms Bowl
How I think the rest of the season goes: Utah will get a back-to-reality ugly overtime win against California, followed by a come-from-behind win vs Arizona State. They will lose a close game to USC, but then wipe out Oregon State, Washington and Arizona. They will have a game-of-the year close win to UCLA followed by a bench-clearing big win over Colorado. Because UCLA will beat USC, there is a 3-way tie for first in the PAC-12 south, which Utah gets the tie breaker for being the highest ranked of the three. Conference final prediction: Stanford 38 Utah 35. Utah settles for an Alamo Bowl appearance against Oklahoma.
BYU Cougars
Current Record: 2-2
I don't know anymore what to expect of the Cougars. As ugly as the loss to Michigan was, it could be a harbinger for the rest of the season. That is not good for BYU or their hopes for the long term future. One thing not considered in all of this is the effect of the Mission Age Change of the LDS Church a few years ago. Those first 18-year-old missionaries, and Tanner Mangum is one of them, are now freshmen who weren't at spring ball. And Mangum isn't the only one who has been called upon to save this team. Good luck in getting through this season. On the other hand, this may be the last year that BYU struggles.
Probable Wins:
Wagner
Fresno State
Toss Up:
Connecticut
Cincinnati
East Carolina
Missouri
San Jose state
Utah State
Optimists Prediction: 10-2
Pessimists Prediction: 4-8
This week's prediction: BYU 10 UConn 6
How will the rest of the season go for BYU: BYU gets an ugly, close, defensive win against UConn thanks to a pick 6 and another interception returned deep into Husky territory. The offense struggles with barely 100 yards. BYU does a little better against East Carolina because Harvey Langi is moved full-time back to running back, but the Cougars still lose the game. They also lose a close game to Cincinnati. After that game, Tommy Tuberville declares that the Bearcats are a better fit for the Big 12 than BYU and his team proved it. BYU gets a closer than it should be victory over Wagner, pulling away in the 2nd half. Then lose another close game at San Jose State. Missouri is another close loss. The Cougars then clobber Fresno State in the home finale before going to Logan and winning a close game to become bowl eligible. After winning the Hawaii Bowl, Bronco Mendenhall announces his retirement to be replaced by Kalani Sitake.
Utah State Aggies
Current Record: 1-2
Chuckie is hurt. What else is new? Chuckie has been hurt a lot. And I have a hard time finding more than a game or two where the backup, wherever it was, couldn't lead this team. They will be fine.
Probable Wins:
Colorado State
Fresno State
San Diego State
Wyoming
New Mexico
Nevada
Probable Loss:
Boise State
Toss Up;
Air Force
Nevada
BYU
Optimists Prediction: 9-3--Poinsettia Bowl
Pessimists Prediction: 7-5--Potato Bowl
This Week's Prediction: Utah State 25 Colorado State 16
How the rest of the season goes for Utah State: The Aggies win a close one to Colorado State and a not-so-close one to Fresno State before getting embarrassed at home by Boise State. They respond with blow out wins against San Diego State, Wyoming and New Mexico before losing in overtime to Air Force. They close out the season with a win against Nevada and a loss to BYU. After the BYU game, it is announced that Matt Wells will replace Darrell Hazel at Purdue with a 2.75 million dollar contract. Kevin Clune coaches USU to victory over Navy in the Poinsettia Bowl, but Rob Ash is named the new head coach.
Weber State Wildcats
Current Record: 2-2
It's amazing what can be done when you are not playing above your league. Weber State is now 2-2. They won their second game before October dawned. Now, they are playing to improve on their record since Ron McBride retired.
Probable Wins:
North Dakota
UC Davis
Idaho State
Probable Losses:
Montana
Eastern Washington
Toss Up:
Southern Utah
Northern Arizona
Optimists Prediction: 7-4
Pessimists Prediction: 5-6
This week's prediction: keep reading
How the rest of the season goes for the Wildcats: Weber State gets a good, close win against the Thunderbirds, followed by a close loss to Montana, but then they also get wins against North Dakota and Northern Arizona. They take Eastern Washington to overtime before losing. They bounce back against UC Davis, but fall to Idaho State in the season finale in a snowstorm with Ron McBride in attendance. Finishing over .500 for the first time in 4 years feels good, and people welcome a return of competitive Weber State football. Surprisingly, Jay Hill stays on for one more season.
Southern Utah Thunderbirds
Current Record: 2-2
SUU had last week amounted to a scrimmage against a team that wore a different colored uniform. It's a chance to work out a few bugs, build confidence, get the backups some playing time. Now that those wounds have been licked, let's see what the rest of the season brings.
Probable Wins:
Sacramento State
UC Davis
Probable Losses:
Montana State
Portland State
Toss Up:
Weber State
Cal Poly
Northern Arizona
Optimists Prediction: 7-4
Pessimists Prediction: 4-7
This Week's Prediction: Weber State 24 Southern Utah 21
How the rest of the season goes for Southern Utah. After a disappointing loss, SUU comes back and clobbers Sacramento State at home which is the beginning of a 3-game winning steak before losing a close game to Montana State in a sub-zero blizzard. Even though the weather is nicer in Portland, SUU loses in a blowout as two former BYU quarterbacks battle. SUU and Northern Arizona renew the rivalry on the last week of the season, the two teams combine for 130 points as SUU wins 67-63.
Wednesday, September 30, 2015
Tuesday, September 29, 2015
What are the chances that these coaches will leave after this season.
Bronco Mendenhall--It's a little early to tell at this point. It is likely that the Michigan game was an abortion and that BYU will win 10 games, plus their bowl game this year. But if Michigan become a harbinger for the rest of the season, there will be a lot of pressure on Mendenhall to step down, especially if the Kansas City Chiefs can't right the ship and Andy Reid is suddenly available. But even if BYU is a paltry 6-6, Mendenhall will be back next year if he wants the job.
How much longer will Bronco be at BYU? IMHO, no more than 1-2 seasons. Bronco said 3 years for BYU to get into a power conference. I think that means that he has 3 years left to coach in Provo.
Possible Short List to Replace Mendenhall if he leaves after this season:
-KC Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid, if he is available.
-Stanford Defensive Coordinator Lance Anderson
-Oregon State Defensive Coordinator Kalani Sitake
-Seattle Seahawks Offensive Coordinator Darrel Bevel
-Utah Offensive Coordinator Aaron Roderick
Kyle Whittingham--If Utah wins the PAC-12 and qualifies for the playoffs, KW will be on every NFL team's short list for new head coaches. What teams could be looking for a new head coach this season? The New York Giants and the Miami Dolphins are among the teams that may part ways with their coach after this season. Chris Hill will pull out all the stops to keep KW from going to another college, and it's not like a lot of choice college jobs will be open after this season, unless you want Arkansas or Texas, but there may be an NFL opportunity too good to pass up. I think the chances that KW stays at Utah, however, are better than 50-50.
How much longer will KW be at Utah: It may not be this year, but KW will be coaching in the NFL sooner rather than later.
Possible Short List to Replace Whittingham if he leaves after this season:
-Oregon State Head Coach Gary Anderson
-Utah State Head Coach Matt Wells
-Oregon State Defensive Coordinator Kalani Sitake
-Offensive Coordinator Aaron Roderick
-Special Teams Coordinator Morgan Scalley
Matt Wells--He has done well enough at Utah State to gain the attention of others across the college football world. I don't know his mind, but he has his price and someone may be willing to give it to him. He could even end up down the road in Salt Lake if KW is lured to the NFL. Unless an SMU-like scandal is uncovered, he will not be forced out of Logan.
How much longer will Matt Wells be at Utah State: A successful coach in Logan will sooner or later be drawn away for more money. I don't know Wells personally, and I don't pretend to know what is in his heart and mind. He may be at USU for a few more seasons, he may leave after this year. Sooner or later, a job that he can't pass up will come his way.
Possible Short List to Replace Wells if he leaves after this season:
-Defensive Coordinator Kevin Clune
-Offensive Coordinator Josh Heupel
-Montana State Head Coach Rob Ash
-Utah Offensive Coordinator Aaron Roderick
-Utah Special Teams Coordinator Morgan Scalley
Weber State Head Coach Jay Hill
I do not get the sense that Jerry Bovee is going to send Jay Hill away anytime soon. As long as the 'Cats are making progress this year, he will have a job. He has not yet done well enough in Ogden to be lured away by any other head coaching opportunities. He may get the chance to be an assistant somewhere, but I don't have the sense that he leaves. The real question in Ogden is when is Weber State going to give up on Football. Although the athletic program in Ogden isn't as subsidized as much as it is at other colleges in the state.
How Much Longer will Jay Hill be at Weber State: If Hill can turn the program around, he will leave not much longer afterwards, much like Mike Price. Well, he might be around for a season or two afterwards, but coaches don't come to Weber State to make a career of it. If he leaves after this season, it will likely to become an assistant coach somewhere.
Possible Short List to Replace Hill if he leaves after this season:
-BYU Defensive Coordinator Nick Howell
-BYU Assistant Coach Garrett Tujague
-BYU QB Coach Jason Beck
-Montana State Offensive Coordinator Tim Cramsey
-Offensive Coordinator Steve Clark
Southern Utah Head Coach Ed Lamb
Southern Utah is a lot like Weber State. Lamb hasn't yet done well enough to get the attention of FBS programs, but not poorly enough to be shown the door. He will be back next year. But the problem in Cedar City is money. SUU is subsidized more than any other school in the state, and there is pressure on the athletic department to make cuts. If he leaves after this season, it will likely to become an assistant coach somewhere.
Possible Short List to Replace Lamb if he leaves after this season:
-Utah assistant coach Justin Ena
-Montana State Offensive Coordinator Tim Cramsey
-Portland State Defensive Coordinator Malik Roberson
-Weber State Offensive Coordinator Steve Clark
-Defensive Coordinator Demario Warren
Sunday, September 27, 2015
September 26 Swagger Report
Michigan 31 BYU 0
BYU was dominated on both sides of the ball. Most of my readers already know the story. So what I have to say should go without saying, but I feel that I have to say it anyway. Big time college football programs show up EVERY SINGLE WEEK. There are no days off, there are no down days. In the old WAC days, you could follow up a close loss to UCLA with an ugly win against the likes of New Mexico. But those days are gone. BYU can't have outings like this and expect a Big 12 invite. They already have Iowa State and Kansas, they don't need another inconsistent team. Every season under Bronco Mendenhall, BYU has played a game the coach has had to apologize for. A coach with Bronco's record shouldn't have to apologize for anything. When are BYU boosters going to demand better? For BYU, I leave the worse insult I can give a team, naming the punter the MVP.
BYU MVP: P Johnny Linihan
Utah 65 Oregon 20
This was probably the best day ever for Utah fans. But let me just say this, when you are ahead 48-13, you don't need to run a trick play on a punt return. Not that Kyle Whittingham has ever been one to let up once the jugular is open. He's going to make sure the beast is good and dead. At least Jim Harbaugh tried to make it easy for BYU to avoid a shutout. That will come back to haunt you. Otherwise, good game. Utah deserves to be ranked higher.
Utah MVP: QB Travis Wilson
Weber State 38 Northern Colorado 17
Yogi Berra, who passed away this week, was once asked what was the best pitch to throw to open a game. His answer was, "strike 1". It was also a good day for the Wildcats doing something that hasn't been done since Ron McBride was on the sidelines...win conference game #1 while playing conference game #1. Mike Price would be sure to emphasize that his team was in first place. But old rival SUU is coming to Ogden next week, and it doesn't matter how good or bad these teams are, it's going to be a good game.
WSU MVP: RB Erik Wilkes
SUU 55 Brevard 7
There is only one thing to say to SUU after beating a low-ranking Division II school. Yawn. Guess who will be more rested on Ogden on Friday night?
SUU MVP: QB Ammon Olsen
BYU was dominated on both sides of the ball. Most of my readers already know the story. So what I have to say should go without saying, but I feel that I have to say it anyway. Big time college football programs show up EVERY SINGLE WEEK. There are no days off, there are no down days. In the old WAC days, you could follow up a close loss to UCLA with an ugly win against the likes of New Mexico. But those days are gone. BYU can't have outings like this and expect a Big 12 invite. They already have Iowa State and Kansas, they don't need another inconsistent team. Every season under Bronco Mendenhall, BYU has played a game the coach has had to apologize for. A coach with Bronco's record shouldn't have to apologize for anything. When are BYU boosters going to demand better? For BYU, I leave the worse insult I can give a team, naming the punter the MVP.
BYU MVP: P Johnny Linihan
Utah 65 Oregon 20
This was probably the best day ever for Utah fans. But let me just say this, when you are ahead 48-13, you don't need to run a trick play on a punt return. Not that Kyle Whittingham has ever been one to let up once the jugular is open. He's going to make sure the beast is good and dead. At least Jim Harbaugh tried to make it easy for BYU to avoid a shutout. That will come back to haunt you. Otherwise, good game. Utah deserves to be ranked higher.
Utah MVP: QB Travis Wilson
Weber State 38 Northern Colorado 17
Yogi Berra, who passed away this week, was once asked what was the best pitch to throw to open a game. His answer was, "strike 1". It was also a good day for the Wildcats doing something that hasn't been done since Ron McBride was on the sidelines...win conference game #1 while playing conference game #1. Mike Price would be sure to emphasize that his team was in first place. But old rival SUU is coming to Ogden next week, and it doesn't matter how good or bad these teams are, it's going to be a good game.
WSU MVP: RB Erik Wilkes
SUU 55 Brevard 7
There is only one thing to say to SUU after beating a low-ranking Division II school. Yawn. Guess who will be more rested on Ogden on Friday night?
SUU MVP: QB Ammon Olsen
Wednesday, September 23, 2015
Predictions Expectations for Week 4 and beyond, 2015
Utah State Aggies
Let's start with the Aggies, who lost Chuckie Keeton for 4-6 weeks. Good thing that the most difficult stretch of the season is behind them and they have a week off to get ready for conference play and to get the new starting quarterback game ready. The news isn't all bad for the Aggies, so cheer up USU fans. But there is that game on October 16 that Keeton will miss, but USU is not expected to beat Boise State even with a healthy Chukie.
Current record: 1-2
Expected Wins
Fresno State
San Diego State
Wyoming
New Mexico
Air Force
Expected Loss
Boise State
Toss Up
Colorado State
Nevada
BYU
Optimists Outlook: 9-3
Pessimists Outlook: 6-6
Likely Post-Season Outlook:
Poinsettia Bowl
No Game this Week
BYU Cougars
Even at 12-0, it would take some sort of divine intervention to get BYU into the playoffs. Even Tanner Mangum has admitted that God doesn't care. Therefore, they didn't have to beat UCLA, they only had to look good in losing. Mission Accomplished. If they want a chance at the NY-6, they probably need to do at least the same against Michigan, if not better. But Michigan presents the same problem for BYU that UCLA did. Their offensive line is big and they could wear BYU's defensive front down, just like UCLA did. A close loss won't hurt BYU, but a win would be better.
Current Record: 2-1
Expected Wins:
Connecticut
East Carolina
Cincinnati
Wagner
San Jose State
Fresno State
Toss Up:
Missouri
Utah State
Optimists Outlook: 11-1
Pessimists Outlook: 9-3
Likely Post-Season Outlook:
Hawaii Bowl
This week's prediction: Michigan 28 BYU 24
Utah Utes
It get's real in a big way for the Utes this week. They travel to Oregon, where some people predict that Utah will emerge victorious. They have done so before. But, I suspect, that no one in the PAC-12 will look past Utah this season, and that the Utes will need to earn it in a big way this week. They do, however, have the tools to come home from Oregon with another win. They have Travis Booker, who can control the clock where a fast zone-read offense can't. But the defense showed, in Fresno last week, that they could be worn down. Utah will need special special teams to win.
Current Record: 3-0
Expected Wins:
California
Arizona State
Oregon State
Washington
Colorado
Expected Loss:
UCLA
Toss Up:
Oregon
USC
Arizona
Optimists Outlook: 11-1
Pessimists Outlook: 8-4
Likely Post-Season Outlook:
Foster Farms Bowl
This Week's Prediction: Oregon 38 Utah 34
Southern Utah Thunderbirds
Coming off of a big win to open their conference season, SUU now takes a break to play Brevard College, a Division II school from Brevard, NC. Never heard of them before. Well, better take them seriously, anyway.
Current Record: 1-2
Expected Wins:
Brevard
Sacramento State
UC Davis
Expected Losses:
Montana State
Cal Poly
Portland State
Northern Arizona
Toss Up:
Weber State
Optimists Outlook: 5-6
Pessimists Outlook: 4-7
This Week's Prediction: SUU 45 Brevard 20
Weber State Wildcats
Weber State has a chance to equal the number of wins they have had in each of the prior three seasons this week. Nottingham Field has been kind to the Wildcats. If the defense continues to play well, win #2 should come this week.
Current Record: 1-2
Expected Wins:
Northern Colorado
UC Davis
Expected Losses:
Montana
Northern Arizona
Eastern Washington
Toss Up:
Southern Utah
North Dakota
Idaho State
Optimists Outlook: 6-5
Pessimists Outlook: 3-9
This Week's Prediction: Weber State 38 Northern Colorado 9
Let's start with the Aggies, who lost Chuckie Keeton for 4-6 weeks. Good thing that the most difficult stretch of the season is behind them and they have a week off to get ready for conference play and to get the new starting quarterback game ready. The news isn't all bad for the Aggies, so cheer up USU fans. But there is that game on October 16 that Keeton will miss, but USU is not expected to beat Boise State even with a healthy Chukie.
Current record: 1-2
Expected Wins
Fresno State
San Diego State
Wyoming
New Mexico
Air Force
Expected Loss
Boise State
Toss Up
Colorado State
Nevada
BYU
Optimists Outlook: 9-3
Pessimists Outlook: 6-6
Likely Post-Season Outlook:
Poinsettia Bowl
No Game this Week
BYU Cougars
Even at 12-0, it would take some sort of divine intervention to get BYU into the playoffs. Even Tanner Mangum has admitted that God doesn't care. Therefore, they didn't have to beat UCLA, they only had to look good in losing. Mission Accomplished. If they want a chance at the NY-6, they probably need to do at least the same against Michigan, if not better. But Michigan presents the same problem for BYU that UCLA did. Their offensive line is big and they could wear BYU's defensive front down, just like UCLA did. A close loss won't hurt BYU, but a win would be better.
Current Record: 2-1
Expected Wins:
Connecticut
East Carolina
Cincinnati
Wagner
San Jose State
Fresno State
Toss Up:
Missouri
Utah State
Optimists Outlook: 11-1
Pessimists Outlook: 9-3
Likely Post-Season Outlook:
Hawaii Bowl
This week's prediction: Michigan 28 BYU 24
Utah Utes
It get's real in a big way for the Utes this week. They travel to Oregon, where some people predict that Utah will emerge victorious. They have done so before. But, I suspect, that no one in the PAC-12 will look past Utah this season, and that the Utes will need to earn it in a big way this week. They do, however, have the tools to come home from Oregon with another win. They have Travis Booker, who can control the clock where a fast zone-read offense can't. But the defense showed, in Fresno last week, that they could be worn down. Utah will need special special teams to win.
Current Record: 3-0
Expected Wins:
California
Arizona State
Oregon State
Washington
Colorado
Expected Loss:
UCLA
Toss Up:
Oregon
USC
Arizona
Optimists Outlook: 11-1
Pessimists Outlook: 8-4
Likely Post-Season Outlook:
Foster Farms Bowl
This Week's Prediction: Oregon 38 Utah 34
Southern Utah Thunderbirds
Coming off of a big win to open their conference season, SUU now takes a break to play Brevard College, a Division II school from Brevard, NC. Never heard of them before. Well, better take them seriously, anyway.
Current Record: 1-2
Expected Wins:
Brevard
Sacramento State
UC Davis
Expected Losses:
Montana State
Cal Poly
Portland State
Northern Arizona
Toss Up:
Weber State
Optimists Outlook: 5-6
Pessimists Outlook: 4-7
This Week's Prediction: SUU 45 Brevard 20
Weber State Wildcats
Weber State has a chance to equal the number of wins they have had in each of the prior three seasons this week. Nottingham Field has been kind to the Wildcats. If the defense continues to play well, win #2 should come this week.
Current Record: 1-2
Expected Wins:
Northern Colorado
UC Davis
Expected Losses:
Montana
Northern Arizona
Eastern Washington
Toss Up:
Southern Utah
North Dakota
Idaho State
Optimists Outlook: 6-5
Pessimists Outlook: 3-9
This Week's Prediction: Weber State 38 Northern Colorado 9
Sunday, September 20, 2015
Report of Action on September 19...week 3 of college football
UCLA 24 BYU 23
Did you notice the difference between BYU of week 1 and week 2 and BYU of week 3? There was one key difference. In the 4th quarter, BYU's defense looked lost and couldn't tackle anyone. Against Nebraska and Boise State, BYU's defense stiffened. BYU may have been exposed by UCLA late in the game. Usually, when the opposition can run on you in the 4th quarter, you are going to lose. It shouldn't need to come down to a Tanner Mangum miracle every week. That kind of game is not sustainable.
BYU MVP: QB Tanner Mangum
Utah Fresno State
BYU isn't the only team in the state with defensive issues in the 4th quarter on the road. Thankfully, Britain Covey put the game out of reach with his punt return. Otherwise, this was the best offensive effort for the Utes so far this season.
Washington 31 Utah State 17
Chuckie Keeton's quarterback stats are just not what we've come to expect from Chuckie Keeton in prior seasons. But one thing he doesn't have that he's had in previous seasons is support from the running game. Chuckie can't be the entire offense, nor the entire team. Hopefully, things will improve stepping into conference play.
USU MVP: S Jontrell Rocquemore
Weber State 32 Sacramento State 14
In a non-conference game against a conference opponent, Weber State held tough on defense. The Hornets only managed 246 yards of total offense. It was important for Weber to win this one, their first real winnable game of 2015 if there was to be any hope of getting past the two win mark where the Wildcats have been for the past 3 seasons.
WSU MVP: WR Cameron Livingston
Southern Utah 30 Northern Colorado 3
This was a conference game for the Thunderbirds. And it was a good way for the conference season to start. The offense wasn't spectacular, but the defense was in forcing 5 Bear interceptions. This is good old Thunderbird football. Forcing turnovers, good special teams play. Getting a short field for the offense. Therefore, they get a lot of points without a lot of yardage. Good to see it back for at least one week. We'll see what they can do as the season progresses.
SUU MVP: LB Mike Needham
Did you notice the difference between BYU of week 1 and week 2 and BYU of week 3? There was one key difference. In the 4th quarter, BYU's defense looked lost and couldn't tackle anyone. Against Nebraska and Boise State, BYU's defense stiffened. BYU may have been exposed by UCLA late in the game. Usually, when the opposition can run on you in the 4th quarter, you are going to lose. It shouldn't need to come down to a Tanner Mangum miracle every week. That kind of game is not sustainable.
BYU MVP: QB Tanner Mangum
Utah Fresno State
BYU isn't the only team in the state with defensive issues in the 4th quarter on the road. Thankfully, Britain Covey put the game out of reach with his punt return. Otherwise, this was the best offensive effort for the Utes so far this season.
Washington 31 Utah State 17
Chuckie Keeton's quarterback stats are just not what we've come to expect from Chuckie Keeton in prior seasons. But one thing he doesn't have that he's had in previous seasons is support from the running game. Chuckie can't be the entire offense, nor the entire team. Hopefully, things will improve stepping into conference play.
USU MVP: S Jontrell Rocquemore
Weber State 32 Sacramento State 14
In a non-conference game against a conference opponent, Weber State held tough on defense. The Hornets only managed 246 yards of total offense. It was important for Weber to win this one, their first real winnable game of 2015 if there was to be any hope of getting past the two win mark where the Wildcats have been for the past 3 seasons.
WSU MVP: WR Cameron Livingston
Southern Utah 30 Northern Colorado 3
This was a conference game for the Thunderbirds. And it was a good way for the conference season to start. The offense wasn't spectacular, but the defense was in forcing 5 Bear interceptions. This is good old Thunderbird football. Forcing turnovers, good special teams play. Getting a short field for the offense. Therefore, they get a lot of points without a lot of yardage. Good to see it back for at least one week. We'll see what they can do as the season progresses.
SUU MVP: LB Mike Needham
Sunday, September 13, 2015
Is This The Year Independence Works Out for BYU
In order for Independence to begin working for BYU you have to prove that BYU would not only be better off financially than as a member of the MWC, but also get a better results than they would have as a member of their old conference.
Financially, reports are that they are making about seven times the money they were making as a member of the MW. But that is still about half of what they could make in a power-five conference.
As far as better results, that is not a little more obvious. As you may know, one at-large spot in the NY-6 bowls goes to the highest ranked member of a G-5 conference. Last year, Boise State received an invite to a NY 6 Bowl and beat Arizona in the Fiesta Bowl. But that is the only time as an independent that a member of BYUs old conference received an invite to a big bowl. The only other time in independence that BYU saw a G-5 member get to a big bowl game was a couple of years ago when Northern Illinois got to the Orange Bowl. This year, Boise State seems likely to get that invite again, but it may not happen. As of this week, the Memphis Tigers are ranked higher in Sagarin and some of the other computer polls than Boise State. If this holds out, Memphis would have the G-5 spot in the NY-6 bowls and not Boise State. But it is early in the season.
Current Rankings of the top team in each G-5 Conference (According to Sagarin)
31. Memphis-AAC
41. Boise State-MWC
50. Toledo-MAC
64. Louisiana Tech-C-USA
81. Louisiana Lafayette-Sun Belt
It is true that the G-5 has an easier path to the NY-6 bowls and also an easier path to the playoffs, it does not mean that each year the honor will go to a member of the Mountain West Conference. The Mountain West is not the strongest G-5 conference at this time. Currently, that honor is going to the American Athletic Conference and not to the Mountain West.
In order for BYU to have a better result in independence, you would have to guess what result they would have as a member of the MWC. You would have to correctly guess how would BYU's Schedule look as an MWC member.
If BYU had remained, the MWC had two options. First, they could have spurned Utah State and remained at 12. Or they could have added UTEP and gone to 14. I believe the latter would have happened. Then you would have to have guessed how the MWC would have scheduled. My guess is that they would have chosen an 9 game model. That is 6 division games, 1 game against a permanent non-Division rival. For BYU, the probably would have been Hawaii. Then there would be two more games against teams from the other division. To make the comparison easy, let's say that this year, BYU's other two non division games are against Boise State in Provo and at San Jose State.
Had BYU remained...MWC Divisions
Mountain West
Air Force Boise State
BYU Fresno State
Colorado State Hawaii
New Mexico Nevada
Utah State UNLV
UTEP San Jose State
Wyoming San Diego State
BYU's Conference games (Current Sagarin Ranking)
Division Games
Air Force (62)
Colorado State (73)
@ New Mexico (137)
@ Utah State (77)
UTEP (146)
@ Wyoming (179)
Non-division conference games:
Boise State (41)
@ San Jose State (95)
@ Hawaii (99)
Non Conference Games are a little bit harder to conjecture. BYU's non conference schedule has had a lot of help from ESPN. Without independence, there would be no ESPN. There would be no games against Nebraska, Michigan and Missouri. I think BYU's three non conference games would have been at UCLA, East Carolina and Wagner.
@ UCLA (17)
East Carolina (74)
Wagner (215)
Note: average ranking of opponents: 101.
BYU just beat Boise State. Against this schedule, BYU probably goes 11-1 in the regular season, with the sole loss being at UCLA. Then being ranked higher than BSU, they get to host BSU in the MW Conference Championship, which they should also win. Meaning BYU is 12-1 and awaiting the bowl selection committee's decision. Let's say that Memphis is also 12-1, with a sole loss at home against Ole Miss. In the polls, where would BYU be ranked? Right now, BYU is ranked 20/22 in the polls, but a little lower by Sagarin, but no enough to make a difference.
The main reason BYU cracked the rankings this early in the real 2015 is because they won at Nebraska and beat Boise State. In the alternative 2015, they are probably not going to crack the polls this early with games against East Carolina and Air Force to start the season. In both reality and fantasy, BYU plays UCLA in week 3. In our fantasy version, they crack the polls for beating UCLA. In reality 2015, they may not drop out of the top 25 for losing to UCLA, as long as it is not a blowout.
Cracking the rankings early means a lot for BYU in reality 2015. A loss to UCLA may not drop them out of the top 25. And they have a good shot, even with losses to UCLA and Missouri at finishing in the top 10. If BYU finishes in the top 10 in reality 2015, they will get to an NY-6 Bowl. And they may even get there with 2 losses. In our fantasy 2015, they would have to finish ahead of all other G-5 conference champions. So being ranked early isn't as important. But BYU is completely in control of their destiny in reality 2015. They have to worry about other schools that don't appear on their schedule in fantasy 2015.
This is the reality that Boise State faces this year. The loss to BYU was big. Not just because Boise State lost, but because of how dismal the rest of the conference has been. When BYU was in the MW, the conference was very good at winning big non-conference games. The old conference has lost that swagger. In 2015, the conference has been dismal. From a 73-21 loss at Ole Miss by Fresno State. To Wyoming losing to North Dakota State. Frankly, if an NY-6 bowl is Boise State's goal, they are no longer in the driver's seat and schools like Memphis and Temple could easily pass them in the rankings.
But in the long run, we can conjecture all we want to. Independence for BYU is not really about one-upping the MW. They are auditioning for a P-5 Conference invite. So far in 2015, the audition is going very well. There is no way to prove that they could handle a P-5 schedule by remaining in the MW.
If the NY-6 is BYU's goal this season, they have done well so far in getting there. Again, two impressive early season wins and BYU is ranked early. They really don't have to worry about what Boise or Memphis or Temple does. If one of those schools is ranked ahead of BYU, who cares? If BYU takes care of business, they will be where they should be at season's end. And 2015 will finally be the year independence works for BYU.
BYU's Current Schedule
@ Nebraska (35) w-33-28
Boise State (41) w-35-24
@ UCLA (17)
@ Michigan (38)
Connecticut (112)
Cincinnati (63)
East Carolina (74)
Wagner (215)
@ San Jose State (95)
@ Missouri (33)
Fresno State (97)
@ Utah State (77)
Average opponent ranking 75
Financially, reports are that they are making about seven times the money they were making as a member of the MW. But that is still about half of what they could make in a power-five conference.
As far as better results, that is not a little more obvious. As you may know, one at-large spot in the NY-6 bowls goes to the highest ranked member of a G-5 conference. Last year, Boise State received an invite to a NY 6 Bowl and beat Arizona in the Fiesta Bowl. But that is the only time as an independent that a member of BYUs old conference received an invite to a big bowl. The only other time in independence that BYU saw a G-5 member get to a big bowl game was a couple of years ago when Northern Illinois got to the Orange Bowl. This year, Boise State seems likely to get that invite again, but it may not happen. As of this week, the Memphis Tigers are ranked higher in Sagarin and some of the other computer polls than Boise State. If this holds out, Memphis would have the G-5 spot in the NY-6 bowls and not Boise State. But it is early in the season.
Current Rankings of the top team in each G-5 Conference (According to Sagarin)
31. Memphis-AAC
41. Boise State-MWC
50. Toledo-MAC
64. Louisiana Tech-C-USA
81. Louisiana Lafayette-Sun Belt
It is true that the G-5 has an easier path to the NY-6 bowls and also an easier path to the playoffs, it does not mean that each year the honor will go to a member of the Mountain West Conference. The Mountain West is not the strongest G-5 conference at this time. Currently, that honor is going to the American Athletic Conference and not to the Mountain West.
In order for BYU to have a better result in independence, you would have to guess what result they would have as a member of the MWC. You would have to correctly guess how would BYU's Schedule look as an MWC member.
If BYU had remained, the MWC had two options. First, they could have spurned Utah State and remained at 12. Or they could have added UTEP and gone to 14. I believe the latter would have happened. Then you would have to have guessed how the MWC would have scheduled. My guess is that they would have chosen an 9 game model. That is 6 division games, 1 game against a permanent non-Division rival. For BYU, the probably would have been Hawaii. Then there would be two more games against teams from the other division. To make the comparison easy, let's say that this year, BYU's other two non division games are against Boise State in Provo and at San Jose State.
Had BYU remained...MWC Divisions
Mountain West
Air Force Boise State
BYU Fresno State
Colorado State Hawaii
New Mexico Nevada
Utah State UNLV
UTEP San Jose State
Wyoming San Diego State
BYU's Conference games (Current Sagarin Ranking)
Division Games
Air Force (62)
Colorado State (73)
@ New Mexico (137)
@ Utah State (77)
UTEP (146)
@ Wyoming (179)
Non-division conference games:
Boise State (41)
@ San Jose State (95)
@ Hawaii (99)
Non Conference Games are a little bit harder to conjecture. BYU's non conference schedule has had a lot of help from ESPN. Without independence, there would be no ESPN. There would be no games against Nebraska, Michigan and Missouri. I think BYU's three non conference games would have been at UCLA, East Carolina and Wagner.
@ UCLA (17)
East Carolina (74)
Wagner (215)
Note: average ranking of opponents: 101.
BYU just beat Boise State. Against this schedule, BYU probably goes 11-1 in the regular season, with the sole loss being at UCLA. Then being ranked higher than BSU, they get to host BSU in the MW Conference Championship, which they should also win. Meaning BYU is 12-1 and awaiting the bowl selection committee's decision. Let's say that Memphis is also 12-1, with a sole loss at home against Ole Miss. In the polls, where would BYU be ranked? Right now, BYU is ranked 20/22 in the polls, but a little lower by Sagarin, but no enough to make a difference.
The main reason BYU cracked the rankings this early in the real 2015 is because they won at Nebraska and beat Boise State. In the alternative 2015, they are probably not going to crack the polls this early with games against East Carolina and Air Force to start the season. In both reality and fantasy, BYU plays UCLA in week 3. In our fantasy version, they crack the polls for beating UCLA. In reality 2015, they may not drop out of the top 25 for losing to UCLA, as long as it is not a blowout.
Cracking the rankings early means a lot for BYU in reality 2015. A loss to UCLA may not drop them out of the top 25. And they have a good shot, even with losses to UCLA and Missouri at finishing in the top 10. If BYU finishes in the top 10 in reality 2015, they will get to an NY-6 Bowl. And they may even get there with 2 losses. In our fantasy 2015, they would have to finish ahead of all other G-5 conference champions. So being ranked early isn't as important. But BYU is completely in control of their destiny in reality 2015. They have to worry about other schools that don't appear on their schedule in fantasy 2015.
This is the reality that Boise State faces this year. The loss to BYU was big. Not just because Boise State lost, but because of how dismal the rest of the conference has been. When BYU was in the MW, the conference was very good at winning big non-conference games. The old conference has lost that swagger. In 2015, the conference has been dismal. From a 73-21 loss at Ole Miss by Fresno State. To Wyoming losing to North Dakota State. Frankly, if an NY-6 bowl is Boise State's goal, they are no longer in the driver's seat and schools like Memphis and Temple could easily pass them in the rankings.
But in the long run, we can conjecture all we want to. Independence for BYU is not really about one-upping the MW. They are auditioning for a P-5 Conference invite. So far in 2015, the audition is going very well. There is no way to prove that they could handle a P-5 schedule by remaining in the MW.
If the NY-6 is BYU's goal this season, they have done well so far in getting there. Again, two impressive early season wins and BYU is ranked early. They really don't have to worry about what Boise or Memphis or Temple does. If one of those schools is ranked ahead of BYU, who cares? If BYU takes care of business, they will be where they should be at season's end. And 2015 will finally be the year independence works for BYU.
BYU's Current Schedule
@ Nebraska (35) w-33-28
Boise State (41) w-35-24
@ UCLA (17)
@ Michigan (38)
Connecticut (112)
Cincinnati (63)
East Carolina (74)
Wagner (215)
@ San Jose State (95)
@ Missouri (33)
Fresno State (97)
@ Utah State (77)
Average opponent ranking 75
Predictions/Expectations after week 2.
BYU Cougars
Current Record 2-0
Outlook: The win against Boise State wasn't really a pretty thing, unless you consider only the 4th quarter. In the first three quarters, the run game wasn't working, the defense was inconsistent and the special teams weren't exactly special. The coaching staff made some adjustments based upon what worked on a scoring drive in the 3rd quarter...mainly throwing on first down. And the defense buckled down. That type of mid-half adjustments from the coaching staff are what BYU will need going forward.
Probable wins
Michigan
Connecticut
East Carolina
Cincinnati
Wagner
San Jose State
Fresno State
Toss Up
UCLA
Missouri
Utah State
Optimists Outlook: 12-0
Pessimists Outlook: 9-3
Post-season outlook: In some computer polls, Memphis is ranked ahead of Boise State. Which means that the Tigers would get the G-5 NY-6 bowl spot and not Boise State. This means that if BYU is not in the playoffs or the NY-6 bowls, then they will be relegated to the Hawaii Bowl. In this case, the win against Boise State is also a loss.
Utah Utes
Current Record: 2-0
Outlook: The Utes will be without Travis Wilson for at least the Fresno State game. Of course, I would be concerned about this if Fresno State was Fresno State this year. But, alas, they are not. Utah's offense isn't 'pretty' without him, and even with him, it's not exactly fun to watch. It has been the defense generating the excitement On the Hill. The offense scores points, they get the job done. That is exactly what Utah needs. Hopefully, Wilson will be back for the Utes to take on Oregon.
Probable Wins
Fresno State
California
Arizona State
Oregon State
Washington
Colorado
Toss Up
Oregon
USC
UCLA
Arizona
Optimists Outlook: 12-0
Pessimists Outlook: 8-4
Post Season: Unless Utah gets into the PAC-12 title game, they are probably looking at quartet of bowls, either the Alamo Bowl, Foster Farms Bowl, Holiday Bowl or Sun Bowl.
Utah State Aggies
Current Record 1-1
Outlook: I'm certain that against SUU, the Aggies were simply looking past them to their date with the Utes. I am also certain that Chukie Keeton and the offense will get off the snide and score a few points. The rest of the MW, outside of Boise State and perhaps Colorado State doesn't look very formidable this year.
Probable wins
Colorado State
Fresno State
San Diego State
Wyoming
New Mexico
Air Force
Nevada
Probable Losses
Washington
Boise State
Toss Up
BYU
Optimists Outlook: 9-3
Pessimist Outlook: 8-4
Post Season: I foresee another trip to San Diego for the Aggies.
Southern Utah Thunderbirds
Current Record 0-2
Outlook: So, I was a little bit overly optimistic in thinking that SUU could go into Brookings and run past the Jackrabbits. Obviously USU was looking past the T-Birds on week 1 and the SUU defense isn't as good as they looked in Logan. But there is still an outside chance of getting into the FCS post-season if Ammon Olsen and the offense can get in gear.
Probable Wins
Brevard
UC Davis
Probable Losses
Cal Poly
Montana State
Portland State
Northern Arizona
Toss Up
Northern Colorado
Weber State
Sacramento State
Optimist Outlook: 5-7
Pessimist Outlook: 2-9
Post Season: Probably not this year.
Weber State Wildcats
Outlook: We don't really know much about Weber State yet this year as they haven't played a winnable game. That changes this coming week. We'll see if their offense can score and we will know if they have a defense capable of giving the team a chance to win.
Probable Win
UC Davis
Probable Losses
Montana
North Dakota
Northern Arizona
Eastern Washington
Toss Up
Sacramento State
Northern Colorado
Southern Utah
Idaho State
Optimist Outlook: 5-7
Pessimist Outlook: 1-10
Post Season: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7fjDS0jKiE
Current Record 2-0
Outlook: The win against Boise State wasn't really a pretty thing, unless you consider only the 4th quarter. In the first three quarters, the run game wasn't working, the defense was inconsistent and the special teams weren't exactly special. The coaching staff made some adjustments based upon what worked on a scoring drive in the 3rd quarter...mainly throwing on first down. And the defense buckled down. That type of mid-half adjustments from the coaching staff are what BYU will need going forward.
Probable wins
Michigan
Connecticut
East Carolina
Cincinnati
Wagner
San Jose State
Fresno State
Toss Up
UCLA
Missouri
Utah State
Optimists Outlook: 12-0
Pessimists Outlook: 9-3
Post-season outlook: In some computer polls, Memphis is ranked ahead of Boise State. Which means that the Tigers would get the G-5 NY-6 bowl spot and not Boise State. This means that if BYU is not in the playoffs or the NY-6 bowls, then they will be relegated to the Hawaii Bowl. In this case, the win against Boise State is also a loss.
Utah Utes
Current Record: 2-0
Outlook: The Utes will be without Travis Wilson for at least the Fresno State game. Of course, I would be concerned about this if Fresno State was Fresno State this year. But, alas, they are not. Utah's offense isn't 'pretty' without him, and even with him, it's not exactly fun to watch. It has been the defense generating the excitement On the Hill. The offense scores points, they get the job done. That is exactly what Utah needs. Hopefully, Wilson will be back for the Utes to take on Oregon.
Probable Wins
Fresno State
California
Arizona State
Oregon State
Washington
Colorado
Toss Up
Oregon
USC
UCLA
Arizona
Optimists Outlook: 12-0
Pessimists Outlook: 8-4
Post Season: Unless Utah gets into the PAC-12 title game, they are probably looking at quartet of bowls, either the Alamo Bowl, Foster Farms Bowl, Holiday Bowl or Sun Bowl.
Utah State Aggies
Current Record 1-1
Outlook: I'm certain that against SUU, the Aggies were simply looking past them to their date with the Utes. I am also certain that Chukie Keeton and the offense will get off the snide and score a few points. The rest of the MW, outside of Boise State and perhaps Colorado State doesn't look very formidable this year.
Probable wins
Colorado State
Fresno State
San Diego State
Wyoming
New Mexico
Air Force
Nevada
Probable Losses
Washington
Boise State
Toss Up
BYU
Optimists Outlook: 9-3
Pessimist Outlook: 8-4
Post Season: I foresee another trip to San Diego for the Aggies.
Southern Utah Thunderbirds
Current Record 0-2
Outlook: So, I was a little bit overly optimistic in thinking that SUU could go into Brookings and run past the Jackrabbits. Obviously USU was looking past the T-Birds on week 1 and the SUU defense isn't as good as they looked in Logan. But there is still an outside chance of getting into the FCS post-season if Ammon Olsen and the offense can get in gear.
Probable Wins
Brevard
UC Davis
Probable Losses
Cal Poly
Montana State
Portland State
Northern Arizona
Toss Up
Northern Colorado
Weber State
Sacramento State
Optimist Outlook: 5-7
Pessimist Outlook: 2-9
Post Season: Probably not this year.
Weber State Wildcats
Outlook: We don't really know much about Weber State yet this year as they haven't played a winnable game. That changes this coming week. We'll see if their offense can score and we will know if they have a defense capable of giving the team a chance to win.
Probable Win
UC Davis
Probable Losses
Montana
North Dakota
Northern Arizona
Eastern Washington
Toss Up
Sacramento State
Northern Colorado
Southern Utah
Idaho State
Optimist Outlook: 5-7
Pessimist Outlook: 1-10
Post Season: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7fjDS0jKiE
Conference Report September 12, 2015
FBS Independents
Notes: BYU and Notre Dame are playing similar plot lines this year. Notre Dame also lost a senior quarterback for the season, and like BYU, will have to turn the "the quarterback of the future" a little earlier than expected. And like BYU did last week in Lincoln, Notre Dame scored on a last second pass play from their freshman QB as time expired.
Game of the Week: Notre Dame 34 Virginia 27.
Offensive Player of the Week: Notre Dame RB C.J. Prosise
Defensive Player of the Week: BYU DB Kai Nacua
Special Teams Player of the Week: Notre Dame P Tyler Newsome
Power Rankings
1. Notre Dame
2. BYU
3. Army
Post-season projections:
Notre Dame--Russell Athletic Bowl
BYU--Hawaii Bowl
PAC-12
Notes: Washington State bounced back in a big way by beating Rutgers in New Jersey. Even though the conference as a whole looked a little rusty in week one, things are looking better now.
Game of the Week: Washington State 37 Rutgers 34
Offensive Player of the Week: Arizona RB Nick Wilson
Defensive Player of the Week: Utah LB Jaren Norris
Special Teams Player of the Week: USC PK Alex Wood
Power Rankings.
1. UCLA
2. USC
3. Oregon
4. Arizona
5. Utah
6. Washington
7. Stanford
8. Arizona State
9. California
10. Washington State
11. Oregon State
12. Colorado
Post-season projections
UCLA--Orange Bowl
USC--Rose Bowl
Oregon--Alamo Bowl
Arizona--Foster Farms Bowl
Utah--Sun Bowl
Washington--Las Vegas Bowl
Stanford--Cactus Bowl
MW
Notes: It was a very tough week for the Mountain West Conference. They went 0-10 in non conference games. Out of those 10 losses, only three of them were within two touchdowns. After the BYU/Boise State game, the camera panned to the student section in Provo with a student holding up a sign that said, "ouch". I think that describes it. Air Force was the sole winner on week 2 for the MW, and an early conference win against San Jose State. I try to pick a winner for game of the week. I am unable to do that this week. More on the MWC situation in a coming post.
Game of the week: Minnesota 23 Colorado State 20
Offensive Player of the Week: Wyoming RB Bryan Hill
Defensive Player of the Week: Utah State LB Nick Vigil
Special Teams Player of the Week: Boise State P Sean Wale
Power Rankings
1. Boise State
2. Utah State
3. Colorado State
4. Air Force
5. San Diego State
6. Nevada
7. San Jose State
8. Fresno Sate
9. Hawaii
10. UNLV
11. New Mexico
12. Wyoming
Post Season
Boise State--Las Vegas Bowl
Utah State--Poinsettia Bowl
Colorado State--New Mexico Bowl
Air Force--Arizona Bowl
Big Sky Conference
Notes: It was not a very good week for the Big Sky Conference, either. NCU got a win against Houston Baptist, who is playing football for the first time this year. Northern Arizona played Division II New Mexico Highlands. Remove those two games from the picture and the best win of the week for the Conference was North Dakota's win over Drake. The team without a nickname is suddenly looking better than expected.
Game of the Week: North Dakota 21 Drake 18
Offensive Player of the Week: Eastern Washington QB Jordan West
Defensive Player of the Week: Cal Poly DB BJ Nard
Special Teams Player of the Week: Portland State PK Jonathan Gonzales
Power Rankings
1. Montana State
2. Portland State
3. Eastern Washington
4. Cal Poly
5. Montana
6. Northern Arizona
7. North Dakota
8. Idaho State
9. Southern Utah
10. Northern Colorado
11. Sacramento State
12. Weber State
13. UC Davis
Post Season Selections:
Montana State, Portland State, Eastern Washington and possibly Cal Poly
Notes: BYU and Notre Dame are playing similar plot lines this year. Notre Dame also lost a senior quarterback for the season, and like BYU, will have to turn the "the quarterback of the future" a little earlier than expected. And like BYU did last week in Lincoln, Notre Dame scored on a last second pass play from their freshman QB as time expired.
Game of the Week: Notre Dame 34 Virginia 27.
Offensive Player of the Week: Notre Dame RB C.J. Prosise
Defensive Player of the Week: BYU DB Kai Nacua
Special Teams Player of the Week: Notre Dame P Tyler Newsome
Power Rankings
1. Notre Dame
2. BYU
3. Army
Post-season projections:
Notre Dame--Russell Athletic Bowl
BYU--Hawaii Bowl
PAC-12
Notes: Washington State bounced back in a big way by beating Rutgers in New Jersey. Even though the conference as a whole looked a little rusty in week one, things are looking better now.
Game of the Week: Washington State 37 Rutgers 34
Offensive Player of the Week: Arizona RB Nick Wilson
Defensive Player of the Week: Utah LB Jaren Norris
Special Teams Player of the Week: USC PK Alex Wood
Power Rankings.
1. UCLA
2. USC
3. Oregon
4. Arizona
5. Utah
6. Washington
7. Stanford
8. Arizona State
9. California
10. Washington State
11. Oregon State
12. Colorado
Post-season projections
UCLA--Orange Bowl
USC--Rose Bowl
Oregon--Alamo Bowl
Arizona--Foster Farms Bowl
Utah--Sun Bowl
Washington--Las Vegas Bowl
Stanford--Cactus Bowl
MW
Notes: It was a very tough week for the Mountain West Conference. They went 0-10 in non conference games. Out of those 10 losses, only three of them were within two touchdowns. After the BYU/Boise State game, the camera panned to the student section in Provo with a student holding up a sign that said, "ouch". I think that describes it. Air Force was the sole winner on week 2 for the MW, and an early conference win against San Jose State. I try to pick a winner for game of the week. I am unable to do that this week. More on the MWC situation in a coming post.
Game of the week: Minnesota 23 Colorado State 20
Offensive Player of the Week: Wyoming RB Bryan Hill
Defensive Player of the Week: Utah State LB Nick Vigil
Special Teams Player of the Week: Boise State P Sean Wale
Power Rankings
1. Boise State
2. Utah State
3. Colorado State
4. Air Force
5. San Diego State
6. Nevada
7. San Jose State
8. Fresno Sate
9. Hawaii
10. UNLV
11. New Mexico
12. Wyoming
Post Season
Boise State--Las Vegas Bowl
Utah State--Poinsettia Bowl
Colorado State--New Mexico Bowl
Air Force--Arizona Bowl
Big Sky Conference
Notes: It was not a very good week for the Big Sky Conference, either. NCU got a win against Houston Baptist, who is playing football for the first time this year. Northern Arizona played Division II New Mexico Highlands. Remove those two games from the picture and the best win of the week for the Conference was North Dakota's win over Drake. The team without a nickname is suddenly looking better than expected.
Game of the Week: North Dakota 21 Drake 18
Offensive Player of the Week: Eastern Washington QB Jordan West
Defensive Player of the Week: Cal Poly DB BJ Nard
Special Teams Player of the Week: Portland State PK Jonathan Gonzales
Power Rankings
1. Montana State
2. Portland State
3. Eastern Washington
4. Cal Poly
5. Montana
6. Northern Arizona
7. North Dakota
8. Idaho State
9. Southern Utah
10. Northern Colorado
11. Sacramento State
12. Weber State
13. UC Davis
Post Season Selections:
Montana State, Portland State, Eastern Washington and possibly Cal Poly
Review of this week's action...September 12, 2015
Utah 24 Utah State 14
Chukie was able to drive the ball against Utah, but couldn't get it into the end zone. Utah wins by forcing turnovers in the 4th quarter after the Aggies drove deep into Ute Territory. The bad news for Utah, Travis Wilson didn't play in the 2nd half. Perhaps the game would not have been as close as it was with him in there. The Utes had to make adjustments around Kendal Thompson at half time, and that gave the offense just enough to win the game.
Utah MVP: RB Devontea Booker
Utah State MVP: WR Devonte Robinson
South Dakota State 55 Southern Utah 10
Here is exhibit #2 that Utah State was looking past the Thunderbirds in week one. The Jackrabbits ran all over their former rival. How else would you explain holding one of the best quarterbacks in the country to a handful of first downs in week 1, then allowing nearly 400 yards passing by SDSU quarterbacks in week #2? It's hard to pick an MVP for SUU in this one, as the score was so one sided, and there was really no bright spot.
SUU MVP: None Chosen
North Dakota State 41 Weber State 14
Sometimes I am glad I am wrong. In this case, we won't be waiting until next week for WSU's first offensive touchdown. The offense at least showed something in a closer than expected game in Fargo. No, that wasn't meant to be a sarcastic punch at the Wildcats. NDSU is really a team that should be in the FBS.
WSU MVP: WR Treshawn Garrett
BYU 35 Boise State 24
As Lefty Gomez once said, "it is better to be lucky than good." Tanner Mangum struggled at times against one of the best defenses in the country. But when it counted, particularly with 45 seconds left in the game, and on 4th and long, Mangum pulled another magic trick out of his hat. But the real heroes of this game for the Cougars were on the defense, that held Boise State to -8 yards in the 4th quarter. Kai Nacua put the Miami Beach Bowl sucker punch behind him and picked off BSU QB Ryan Finley 3 times.
BYU MVP: DB Kai Nacua
Chukie was able to drive the ball against Utah, but couldn't get it into the end zone. Utah wins by forcing turnovers in the 4th quarter after the Aggies drove deep into Ute Territory. The bad news for Utah, Travis Wilson didn't play in the 2nd half. Perhaps the game would not have been as close as it was with him in there. The Utes had to make adjustments around Kendal Thompson at half time, and that gave the offense just enough to win the game.
Utah MVP: RB Devontea Booker
Utah State MVP: WR Devonte Robinson
South Dakota State 55 Southern Utah 10
Here is exhibit #2 that Utah State was looking past the Thunderbirds in week one. The Jackrabbits ran all over their former rival. How else would you explain holding one of the best quarterbacks in the country to a handful of first downs in week 1, then allowing nearly 400 yards passing by SDSU quarterbacks in week #2? It's hard to pick an MVP for SUU in this one, as the score was so one sided, and there was really no bright spot.
SUU MVP: None Chosen
North Dakota State 41 Weber State 14
Sometimes I am glad I am wrong. In this case, we won't be waiting until next week for WSU's first offensive touchdown. The offense at least showed something in a closer than expected game in Fargo. No, that wasn't meant to be a sarcastic punch at the Wildcats. NDSU is really a team that should be in the FBS.
WSU MVP: WR Treshawn Garrett
BYU 35 Boise State 24
As Lefty Gomez once said, "it is better to be lucky than good." Tanner Mangum struggled at times against one of the best defenses in the country. But when it counted, particularly with 45 seconds left in the game, and on 4th and long, Mangum pulled another magic trick out of his hat. But the real heroes of this game for the Cougars were on the defense, that held Boise State to -8 yards in the 4th quarter. Kai Nacua put the Miami Beach Bowl sucker punch behind him and picked off BSU QB Ryan Finley 3 times.
BYU MVP: DB Kai Nacua
Thursday, September 10, 2015
Was This the Breakthrough? Week 2 predictions
BYU finally has a signature road win in Independence and Utah has beaten a Big 10 team and broken into the national rankings. But whether or not this is a breakthrough remains to be seen. Not all breakthroughs are apparent right away. Utah State's near loss may be better for the team in the long run because it will serve at motivation all season. And it will serve to humble a group of people who often find it difficult to be humble.
Rome wasn't built in a day, and BYU didn't become an overnight success. Coach Edwards often points to the work that Tommy Hudspedth did as BYU's coach. Perhaps BYU's struggles in recent seasons have been a lull that almost every program has. If I was to point to a breakthrough win for the BYU football program, I would go November 6, 1965. That game was a 25-20 win over Utah, only the third time every that BYU had beaten Utah. But from 1965 to 1992, BYU dominated this series. After this game came their first conference championship, then came others, and invites to bowl games and eventually a National Championship and a Heisman Trophy winner. But it all had to start somewhere. BYU is already big. Success this season will add to their legacy.
Time also changes perspectives. What if Utah had been invited to the PAC-12 four years earlier? We wouldn't have been talking about the 2009 Sugar Bowl for the Utes, but the 2009 Rose Bowl or something bigger instead. If the PAC-10 had expanded to 12 in 1990 would they have even considered Utah? Chances are, we wouldn't be speculating on BYU being in the Big 12, if that had happened, because BYU would be there already.
What BYU needs is a big enough season so that when the Big 12 decides to expand, they won't even think about anyone else. They may not need to finish 12-0. They just need to prove that last Saturday in Lincoln was no fluke.
Utah doesn't need to win the PAC-12 this year, even though a conference championship would be nice. They only need to prove that they can compete.
Utah State doesn't need to break into a NY6 bowl this year. They just need to remind the MWC that they are still a force.
The number of wins needed to reach these thresholds isn't yet clear. But it will be by the end of the season.
Predictions
Utah State at Utah
The Aggies had a pretty dismal offensive performance against Southern Utah. This puts more pressure on the offense to perform against a very stout defense. Even though Utah's offensive performance was nothing to brag about, they did good enough to win in week 1. The Aggies also have a very good defense. I don't expect a lot of scoring in this game.
Utah 17 Utah State 10
Boise State at BYU
BSU defensively did very well against Washington in week 1. But their offense struggled. BYU struggled at times on defense in Lincoln. Taysom Hill's foot was the main reason BYU didn't pull away from the Huskers in the 2nd half. One thing that the 4th quarter in Lincoln did for Tanner Mangum was give him success, and with success comes confidence. The final 2 drives against Nebraska, BYU used a balanced attack and got over 140 yards and 9 points. That is what BYU will need against Boise State. I don't think that this is a game that BYU has to win, but it will help a lot if they do. I expect this one will be back and forth and the team that has the ball in scoring range last should win.
Boise State 31 BYU 30
Weber State at North Dakota State
Sometimes a loss will wake up a sleeping giant. That is what Montana did to North Dakota State in a game two weeks ago. All that NDSU did in response was go to Laramie and blow out their former coach and the Cowboys. Last week WSU lost by a trio of touchdowns, and if it weren't for an incredible performance by one safety, WSU wouldn't have scored at all. I think WSU will go into homecoming next week still looking for their first offensive touchdown.
NDSU 55 WSU 3
Southern Utah at South Dakota State
If SUU is going to make the post season this year, this is a must win game for them. They do not have another shot at an FCS school, and there are others in the Big Sky Conference who have a higher RPI...who don't appear on the SUU schedule, BTW. The computer rankings have the Jackrabbits at about a 14 point favorite. This game should be much closer than that. SUU's defense held Chuckie Keeton and the USU offense in check last week in Logan. They can handle a few puny Jackrabbits. The question is whether or not Ammon Olsen and the offense can score enough points to win. I think that the difference in this game will be another special teams effort.
SUU 24 SDSU 21
Rome wasn't built in a day, and BYU didn't become an overnight success. Coach Edwards often points to the work that Tommy Hudspedth did as BYU's coach. Perhaps BYU's struggles in recent seasons have been a lull that almost every program has. If I was to point to a breakthrough win for the BYU football program, I would go November 6, 1965. That game was a 25-20 win over Utah, only the third time every that BYU had beaten Utah. But from 1965 to 1992, BYU dominated this series. After this game came their first conference championship, then came others, and invites to bowl games and eventually a National Championship and a Heisman Trophy winner. But it all had to start somewhere. BYU is already big. Success this season will add to their legacy.
Time also changes perspectives. What if Utah had been invited to the PAC-12 four years earlier? We wouldn't have been talking about the 2009 Sugar Bowl for the Utes, but the 2009 Rose Bowl or something bigger instead. If the PAC-10 had expanded to 12 in 1990 would they have even considered Utah? Chances are, we wouldn't be speculating on BYU being in the Big 12, if that had happened, because BYU would be there already.
What BYU needs is a big enough season so that when the Big 12 decides to expand, they won't even think about anyone else. They may not need to finish 12-0. They just need to prove that last Saturday in Lincoln was no fluke.
Utah doesn't need to win the PAC-12 this year, even though a conference championship would be nice. They only need to prove that they can compete.
Utah State doesn't need to break into a NY6 bowl this year. They just need to remind the MWC that they are still a force.
The number of wins needed to reach these thresholds isn't yet clear. But it will be by the end of the season.
Predictions
Utah State at Utah
The Aggies had a pretty dismal offensive performance against Southern Utah. This puts more pressure on the offense to perform against a very stout defense. Even though Utah's offensive performance was nothing to brag about, they did good enough to win in week 1. The Aggies also have a very good defense. I don't expect a lot of scoring in this game.
Utah 17 Utah State 10
Boise State at BYU
BSU defensively did very well against Washington in week 1. But their offense struggled. BYU struggled at times on defense in Lincoln. Taysom Hill's foot was the main reason BYU didn't pull away from the Huskers in the 2nd half. One thing that the 4th quarter in Lincoln did for Tanner Mangum was give him success, and with success comes confidence. The final 2 drives against Nebraska, BYU used a balanced attack and got over 140 yards and 9 points. That is what BYU will need against Boise State. I don't think that this is a game that BYU has to win, but it will help a lot if they do. I expect this one will be back and forth and the team that has the ball in scoring range last should win.
Boise State 31 BYU 30
Weber State at North Dakota State
Sometimes a loss will wake up a sleeping giant. That is what Montana did to North Dakota State in a game two weeks ago. All that NDSU did in response was go to Laramie and blow out their former coach and the Cowboys. Last week WSU lost by a trio of touchdowns, and if it weren't for an incredible performance by one safety, WSU wouldn't have scored at all. I think WSU will go into homecoming next week still looking for their first offensive touchdown.
NDSU 55 WSU 3
Southern Utah at South Dakota State
If SUU is going to make the post season this year, this is a must win game for them. They do not have another shot at an FCS school, and there are others in the Big Sky Conference who have a higher RPI...who don't appear on the SUU schedule, BTW. The computer rankings have the Jackrabbits at about a 14 point favorite. This game should be much closer than that. SUU's defense held Chuckie Keeton and the USU offense in check last week in Logan. They can handle a few puny Jackrabbits. The question is whether or not Ammon Olsen and the offense can score enough points to win. I think that the difference in this game will be another special teams effort.
SUU 24 SDSU 21
Sunday, September 6, 2015
Predictions and Expectations after Week 1
BYU Cougars
Current Record 1-0
Outlook: BYU lost Taysom Hill for the season and they should be fine as long as two things happen. 1. Tanner Mangum remains healthy and 2. The running game gets going and its not all up to Mangum's arm from here on out. I would be even bigger about BYU this season with Taysom Hill under center. At least once this year, BYU will lose a game because of a Mangum error.
Probable Wins
Michigan
Connecticut
East Carolina
Cincinnati
Wagner
San Jose State
Fresno State
Probable Losses
UCLA
Missouri
Toss Up
Boise State
Utah State
Optimist scenario: 10-2
Pessimist scenario: 8-4
Post Season Outlook: Las Vegas Bowl
Utah Utes
Current Record 1-0 (0-0)
Outlook: Compared to the rest of the PAC-12, Utah looked very good in their season opener. The run game was a little suspect, but Travis Wilson and the defense came up big.
Probable Wins
Utah State
Fresno State
California
Arizona State
Oregon State
Washington
Colorado
Probable Losses
Oregon
UCLA
Toss Up
Arizona
USC
Optimist scenario: 10-2
Pessimist scenario: 8-4
Post Season Outlook: 2nd or 3rd in PAC-12 South, likely Alamo or Holiday Bowl.
Utah State Aggies
Current record (1-0)
Outlook: I am willing to take the results of the Southern Utah game as an abrogation. This is not the Utah State team that we will see the rest of the season. Chuckie Keeton will eventually get on a roll, but it may take until conference play to see that happen.
Current Record 1-0 (0-0)
Probable Wins
Colorado State
Fresno State
Wyoming
New Mexico
Air Force
Probable Losses
Utah
Washington
Boise State
Toss Up
San Diego State
Nevada
BYU
Optimist scenario: 9-3
Pessimist scenario: 6-6
Post-season outlook: 2nd or 3rd in MW Mountain. Poinsettia Bowl or New Mexico Bowl.
Southern Utah Thunderbirds
Current Record 0-1 (0-0)
Outlook: The SUU defense was the star in Logan on Opening Night. They kept Chuckie Keeton and the Aggie offensive machine out of the end zone. SUU may not be the 4th-best team in the Big Sky Conference, but they have a good change at making the post-season with a favorable 2015 schedule. They will have to win games in the "Toss Up" category to get there.
Probable Wins
South Dakota State
Northern Colorado
Brevard
Weber State
Sacramento State
UC Davis
Probable Losses
Cal Poly
Montana State
Toss Up
Portland State
Northern Arizona
Optimist scenario: 8-3
Pessimist scenario: 6-5
Post-season outlook: outside chance at the FCS playoffs.
Weber State Wildcats
Outlook: On the defensive side of the ball, WSU has shown improvement over the dismal last few seasons. On the offensive side of the ball?
Probable Wins
Northern Colorado
UC Davis
Probable Losses
North Dakota State
Southern Utah
Montana
Northern Arizona
Eastern Washington
Idaho State
Toss Up
Sacramento State
UC Davis
Optimist scenario: 4-7
Pessimist scenario: 2-9
Current Record 1-0
Outlook: BYU lost Taysom Hill for the season and they should be fine as long as two things happen. 1. Tanner Mangum remains healthy and 2. The running game gets going and its not all up to Mangum's arm from here on out. I would be even bigger about BYU this season with Taysom Hill under center. At least once this year, BYU will lose a game because of a Mangum error.
Probable Wins
Michigan
Connecticut
East Carolina
Cincinnati
Wagner
San Jose State
Fresno State
Probable Losses
UCLA
Missouri
Toss Up
Boise State
Utah State
Optimist scenario: 10-2
Pessimist scenario: 8-4
Post Season Outlook: Las Vegas Bowl
Utah Utes
Current Record 1-0 (0-0)
Outlook: Compared to the rest of the PAC-12, Utah looked very good in their season opener. The run game was a little suspect, but Travis Wilson and the defense came up big.
Probable Wins
Utah State
Fresno State
California
Arizona State
Oregon State
Washington
Colorado
Probable Losses
Oregon
UCLA
Toss Up
Arizona
USC
Optimist scenario: 10-2
Pessimist scenario: 8-4
Post Season Outlook: 2nd or 3rd in PAC-12 South, likely Alamo or Holiday Bowl.
Utah State Aggies
Current record (1-0)
Outlook: I am willing to take the results of the Southern Utah game as an abrogation. This is not the Utah State team that we will see the rest of the season. Chuckie Keeton will eventually get on a roll, but it may take until conference play to see that happen.
Current Record 1-0 (0-0)
Probable Wins
Colorado State
Fresno State
Wyoming
New Mexico
Air Force
Probable Losses
Utah
Washington
Boise State
Toss Up
San Diego State
Nevada
BYU
Optimist scenario: 9-3
Pessimist scenario: 6-6
Post-season outlook: 2nd or 3rd in MW Mountain. Poinsettia Bowl or New Mexico Bowl.
Southern Utah Thunderbirds
Current Record 0-1 (0-0)
Outlook: The SUU defense was the star in Logan on Opening Night. They kept Chuckie Keeton and the Aggie offensive machine out of the end zone. SUU may not be the 4th-best team in the Big Sky Conference, but they have a good change at making the post-season with a favorable 2015 schedule. They will have to win games in the "Toss Up" category to get there.
Probable Wins
South Dakota State
Northern Colorado
Brevard
Weber State
Sacramento State
UC Davis
Probable Losses
Cal Poly
Montana State
Toss Up
Portland State
Northern Arizona
Optimist scenario: 8-3
Pessimist scenario: 6-5
Post-season outlook: outside chance at the FCS playoffs.
Weber State Wildcats
Outlook: On the defensive side of the ball, WSU has shown improvement over the dismal last few seasons. On the offensive side of the ball?
Probable Wins
Northern Colorado
UC Davis
Probable Losses
North Dakota State
Southern Utah
Montana
Northern Arizona
Eastern Washington
Idaho State
Toss Up
Sacramento State
UC Davis
Optimist scenario: 4-7
Pessimist scenario: 2-9
Wasatch Swagger Conference Report for Week 1 2015
FBS Independents
Game of the Week: BYU 33 Nebraska 28
Co-Offensive Players of the Week: BYU QBs Taysom Hill and Tanner Mangum
Defensive Player of the Week: Notre Dame LB Jaylon Smith
Special Teams Player of the Week: BYU P Patrick Linehan
Power Rankings:
1. Notre Dame
2. BYU
3. Army
Pac 12
Game of the Week: Utah 24 Michigan 17
Offensive Player of the Week: UCLA QB Josh Rosen
Defensive Player of the Week: Utah DB Justin Thomas
Special Teams Player of the Week: Utah P Tom Hackett
Power Rankings
1. UCLA
2. Oregon
3. Arizona
4. Utah
5. USC
6. Oregon State
7. Washington
8. California
9. Washington
10. Stanford
11. Colorado
12. Washington State
Mountain West
Game of the Week: Hawaii 28 Colorado 20
Offensive Player of the Week: Wyoming WR Tanner Gentry
Defensive Player of the Week: Boise State LB Tanner Vallejo
Special Teams Player of the Week: Utah State PR Andrew Rodriquez
Power Rankings
1. Boise State
2. San Diego State
3. Nevada
4. Colorado State
5. Utah State
6. Fresno State
7. San Jose State
8. Air Force
9. Hawaii
10. UNLV
11. New Mexico
12. Wyoming
Big Sky Conference
Game of the Week: Montana 38 North Dakota State 35
Offensive Player of the Week: Montana QB Brady Gustafson (vs. Cal Poly)
Defensive Player of the Week: Weber State S Josh Burton
Special Teams Player of the Week: Montana PK Daniel Sullivan (vs. North Dakota State)
Power Rankings
1. Eastern Washington
2. Montana State
3. Cal Poly
4. Portland State
5. Montana
6. Northern Arizona
7. Idaho State
8. Southern Utah
9. North Dakota
10. Sacramento State
11. Northern Colorado
12. UC Davis
13. Weber State
Game of the Week: BYU 33 Nebraska 28
Co-Offensive Players of the Week: BYU QBs Taysom Hill and Tanner Mangum
Defensive Player of the Week: Notre Dame LB Jaylon Smith
Special Teams Player of the Week: BYU P Patrick Linehan
Power Rankings:
1. Notre Dame
2. BYU
3. Army
Pac 12
Game of the Week: Utah 24 Michigan 17
Offensive Player of the Week: UCLA QB Josh Rosen
Defensive Player of the Week: Utah DB Justin Thomas
Special Teams Player of the Week: Utah P Tom Hackett
Power Rankings
1. UCLA
2. Oregon
3. Arizona
4. Utah
5. USC
6. Oregon State
7. Washington
8. California
9. Washington
10. Stanford
11. Colorado
12. Washington State
Mountain West
Game of the Week: Hawaii 28 Colorado 20
Offensive Player of the Week: Wyoming WR Tanner Gentry
Defensive Player of the Week: Boise State LB Tanner Vallejo
Special Teams Player of the Week: Utah State PR Andrew Rodriquez
Power Rankings
1. Boise State
2. San Diego State
3. Nevada
4. Colorado State
5. Utah State
6. Fresno State
7. San Jose State
8. Air Force
9. Hawaii
10. UNLV
11. New Mexico
12. Wyoming
Big Sky Conference
Game of the Week: Montana 38 North Dakota State 35
Offensive Player of the Week: Montana QB Brady Gustafson (vs. Cal Poly)
Defensive Player of the Week: Weber State S Josh Burton
Special Teams Player of the Week: Montana PK Daniel Sullivan (vs. North Dakota State)
Power Rankings
1. Eastern Washington
2. Montana State
3. Cal Poly
4. Portland State
5. Montana
6. Northern Arizona
7. Idaho State
8. Southern Utah
9. North Dakota
10. Sacramento State
11. Northern Colorado
12. UC Davis
13. Weber State
Saturday, September 5, 2015
College Football 2015 Week 1 Review.
The first week of the season is so difficult to predict. I was wrong on a few of my predictions, but there are a few things that no one would have guessed coming into week 1. Six months ago, Tanner Mangum was teaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ in Chile. Today, he steps in off the bench in the 4th quarter and throws a game-winning 'Hail Mary' into the wind in Lincoln, Nebraska. Nobody does THAT in Lincoln, Nebraska against the Huskers. So much for what we think we know.
Statewide players of the week.
Co-Offensive Players of the Week: BYU QBs Taysom Hill and Tanner Mangum
Defensive Player of the Week: Utah DB Justin Thomas
Special Teams Player of the Week: USU PR Andrew Rodriguez
Utah 24 Michigan 17
I'm reporting on this one first, because this was the only game that I was close to getting right. I thought it would be special teams that was the difference, but this time, it was the Ute defense. Justin Thomas, who is not THE Justin Thomas (who is a golfer), but just a Justin Thomas became THAT Justin Thomas for just one play. And that was the difference. I think it's going to be a good year on the Hill.
Utah Player of the Game: DB Justin Thomas
Utah State 12 Southern Utah 9
If I am Matt Well, and if I could look at Utah State's schedule and pick just one game for my team to play Stormtrooper, this would be the game. But really, Chuckie Keeton should have been watching the 2nd half from the sideline, with the Aggies having a comfortable lead. It didn't work out that way, as the Aggies trailed most of the way and would have lost had in not been for Andrew Rodriquez' 4th quarter heroics. Hopefully, the offense will be better going forward.
For SUU, does this mean the rest of the Big Sky Conference should watch out for the Thunderbirds. No. (The Big Sky Conference mostly did very well for week 1 against mostly FBS opponents). But it does mean that people should take this team seriously. The schedule is favorable for them, and if SUU wins the games that they should win from here on out, then they should be in the FCS playoffs. Let's hope this portends a good season for SUU.
USU Player of the Game: PR Andrew Rodriquez
SUU Player of the Game: QB Ammon Olsen
Oregon State 26 Weber State 7
The Beavers didn't have a cake walk in week 1 against their FCS opponent either. For Weber State fans, the offense appears to be about what we thought they were. For the defense, they may be better. Perhaps we can look forward to more than 3 wins for WSU this year. The reason I say this, WSU kept the Beavers in check on offense most of the game and the sole touchdown was scored by the defense.
WSU Player of the Game: S Josh Burton
BYU 33 Nebraska 28
This was a good news, bad news day for BYU. Of course they got the win. But Taysom Hill was lost for the season for the third time in 4 years. If I were Taysom, and let me emphasize that this is his decision, it would be time to hang up the cleats for good, even if he can get a medical redshirt. Concentrate on getting that degree, largely without the level of debt that most college students are saddled with, and move on with your life.
As for Mangum and the Cougars, I didn't expect them to even hang with Nebraska. My prediction was dead wrong. Next time someone comments on this blog that I am a BYU homer, I have proof that I am not. For the record, even thought I am born and reared in Utah and I live in Utah now but I have a BS from the University of Nebraska.
BYU Co-Players of the Game: QBs Taysom Hill and Tanner Mangum
Statewide players of the week.
Co-Offensive Players of the Week: BYU QBs Taysom Hill and Tanner Mangum
Defensive Player of the Week: Utah DB Justin Thomas
Special Teams Player of the Week: USU PR Andrew Rodriguez
Utah 24 Michigan 17
I'm reporting on this one first, because this was the only game that I was close to getting right. I thought it would be special teams that was the difference, but this time, it was the Ute defense. Justin Thomas, who is not THE Justin Thomas (who is a golfer), but just a Justin Thomas became THAT Justin Thomas for just one play. And that was the difference. I think it's going to be a good year on the Hill.
Utah Player of the Game: DB Justin Thomas
Utah State 12 Southern Utah 9
If I am Matt Well, and if I could look at Utah State's schedule and pick just one game for my team to play Stormtrooper, this would be the game. But really, Chuckie Keeton should have been watching the 2nd half from the sideline, with the Aggies having a comfortable lead. It didn't work out that way, as the Aggies trailed most of the way and would have lost had in not been for Andrew Rodriquez' 4th quarter heroics. Hopefully, the offense will be better going forward.
For SUU, does this mean the rest of the Big Sky Conference should watch out for the Thunderbirds. No. (The Big Sky Conference mostly did very well for week 1 against mostly FBS opponents). But it does mean that people should take this team seriously. The schedule is favorable for them, and if SUU wins the games that they should win from here on out, then they should be in the FCS playoffs. Let's hope this portends a good season for SUU.
USU Player of the Game: PR Andrew Rodriquez
SUU Player of the Game: QB Ammon Olsen
Oregon State 26 Weber State 7
The Beavers didn't have a cake walk in week 1 against their FCS opponent either. For Weber State fans, the offense appears to be about what we thought they were. For the defense, they may be better. Perhaps we can look forward to more than 3 wins for WSU this year. The reason I say this, WSU kept the Beavers in check on offense most of the game and the sole touchdown was scored by the defense.
WSU Player of the Game: S Josh Burton
BYU 33 Nebraska 28
This was a good news, bad news day for BYU. Of course they got the win. But Taysom Hill was lost for the season for the third time in 4 years. If I were Taysom, and let me emphasize that this is his decision, it would be time to hang up the cleats for good, even if he can get a medical redshirt. Concentrate on getting that degree, largely without the level of debt that most college students are saddled with, and move on with your life.
As for Mangum and the Cougars, I didn't expect them to even hang with Nebraska. My prediction was dead wrong. Next time someone comments on this blog that I am a BYU homer, I have proof that I am not. For the record, even thought I am born and reared in Utah and I live in Utah now but I have a BS from the University of Nebraska.
BYU Co-Players of the Game: QBs Taysom Hill and Tanner Mangum
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