After the miraculous start for the BYU’s Football team, it’s no wonder that the nation is looking forward to this weekends game against the UCLA Bruins.
Here are the quick details that every football fan needs to know:
BYU is the underdog
BYU is a 17 point underdog to the Bruins according to ESPN. With a dynamic quarterback and a team returning over 18 starters, analysts are saying that UCLA could be the best in the PAC-12 this year. There will be fuel added to the fire as UCLA looks to avenge its 59-0 loss against the Cougars in 2008. BYU will have to play very well to pull off the upset in Pasadena.
BYU needs to establish a running game
Besides making sure that Tanner Mangum’s arm— seen here, here, here and here—is as good as it was in the last two games, the Cougars need to establish a running game to wear down the Bruin’s defense. Bleacher Report includes this point as one of BYU’s Keys to Victory for this Saturday’s game. BYU has struggled in its last two games to establish a running game and the hole Jamaal Williams left in the backfield has definitely been felt so far this season.
BYU needs to use its “height” to its advantage
Although BYU is a clear underdog in this game–which shouldn’t be a surprise since it has been one all season– analysts are commenting on the fact that this year’s team is a legitimate contender. ESPN Analyst Trevor Matich said he believes that BYU is the “real deal” and gives them a chance to upset UCLA. Many experts say if BYU can use its three receivers over 6’5″ to move the ball, they could have a shot.
