Keys to the USU Game

Do We Even Need to Worry

I know most will believe that the key to winning this game is to not lose the keys to the bus, or drive it off the road. But in this age of upsets, and talk of title runs, the cougars can not afford to lose focus. (Just ask last year’s Michigan team, or even USC). So here are the keys that will help insure a Cougar victory.

Score Early

I think this may be a key to every BYU game this year. Few teams can match the cougars in a track meet, and if they can score early, BYU will limit their opponent’s chances to control the pace of the game.

Come Out Focused

A lack of Focus seems to be a major ingredient in most upsets. If BYU comes out focused, I don’t think the Aggies can hang with them. But If they come out flat and out of sync, Utah State may have a shot.

Avoid the Big Play

Again, Big Plays tend to also be found in major upsets, so the cougar defense cannot give up big plays. If Utah state has to win it in the trenches, i don’t think they can. But If they get a couple of quick and cheap scores, they have a chance to get the cougars out of their game.

Forget the Ratings

I really think that USU cannot win this game, but BYU does have the potential to lose it. Quit worrying about press clippings and talk of national championships. Just go play cougar football.

USU Strengths

They do have some strengths, including two linebackers on Butkus award watch lists, and their defense did hold two opponents to less than 100 yards rushing last year.  They also had 9 interceptions in 12 games last year. They are averaging 23 points per game, but are giving up 42. They have per game offensive averages of 183 passing, 145 rushing, and 2.5 TD’s.  The Aggies are coming off a win, and may be feeling about as good about themselves as they have in a while.

The Guru’s Guess  BYU 45   USU 10