BCS Busters?

Much hype and attention has been thrown the cougar's way this offseason. What warrants such exposure, and media coverage? After two 11-2 seasons, the cougars are on a quest. The team has adapted the phrase "Quest for Perfection." Bronco Mendenhall has openly expressed that this does not mean they expect to win every game, but he wants each and every player to strive to be perfect on and off the field. In the end, the meaning is still the same, they want to win every game they play.

BYU will return 10 starters on an offense that was the best in the conference last year. All of the top producing talents will grace the field this fall. The big question marks lye on the other side of the field, the Defense. They only return 3 starters from a defense that was top in total yards allowed last season, and second in scoring defense. They must replace seven of eight people behind the defensive line. Many of the players have had experience, but have not had a starting role. They will need to grow up quick.

BYU's schedule is one that could yield a run to the BCS unless the cougars falter to some tough, but not overbearing Out-of-Conference foes. The toughest challenges include: a trip to Washington (BYU has had a tough time beating even average BCS teams on the road), UCLA at home (UCLA has owned BYU all but two times in their 9 meetings), TCU on the road (these two teams have had some close games no matter where they play), and Utah on the road (When has it been easy to beat Utah? Even when BYU is at it's best, they struggle to put the Utes away).

BYU will bust the BCS if: their offense is as unstoppable as they are advertised to be. They have so much talent to spread out defenses. This offense should be able to put points on the board at will. They had a few lapses last year where they struggled with turnovers, and had to settle for field goals. With another year under their belts, Anae should be able to unleash the complete playbook.

The cougar's defense will need to be strong again this year. The past two years, the cougars have been in the top two of the MWC in scoring defense. They will need to continue this dominance. They may need to make some big plays against the tougher teams BYU faces. The offense will not be able to carry the weight all of the time. Just look at the Tulsa game last year to see an example of that.

The Cougar's will not make the BCS if: they continue their trend of losing a couple of close games early. They will need to work out kinks in the fall, before they face the two PAC-10 foes. If the defense doesn't pick up where they left off last year, BYU may face some early shootouts that could go either way. After giving up 55 points to Tulsa last year, the defense improved and did not allow more than 28 points the rest of the season.

BYU's offense will need to begin the year strong. They seem to come into conference play rolling, but this year they will need to come right out of the schutes scoring Touchdowns. It will be important for BYU to hold onto the ball, and limit turnovers. If the defense is lagging at all, then the offense will need to be extra careful to hold onto the football.

Who is expected to have a big year?
Max Hall - He threw for over 3.800 yards last year. He had more than any other sophomore quarterback. He will have the same targets, and free reins to stretch the field.
Austin Collie - Since his freshman year, cougar fans knew they had a talent in this kid. He is a big play receiver. In two year, this guy could be the top receiver ever at BYU.
Harvey Unga - He broked onto the stage as a freshman and suprised the MWC. He was the top rusher in the conference. He is a big back that is quick and likes to run guys over.
The offensive line - There really aren't any weak links in the line. They are all huge and have experience. This group should not disappoint.
Dennis Pitta - He had more receptions than Collie, and showcased some athleticism and toughness last year. He will pose challenges for defenses all year.
Jan Jorgensen - This guy was a beast last year. He led the MWC in sacks. He is a hustler that will not give up. He should get his hands on many quarterbacks throughout the year.
David Nixon - He is the premier returner for an inexperienced defensive linebacking core. He will make plays this year, and lead the linebackers.

Who will suprise us this year?
Fui Vakapuna - He seems to have recaptured his previous energy. If he can remain healthy, he will provide secondary relief for Unga. He could be a spark to the team, and a playmaker.
JJ Diluigi - He was a bright spot for the spring scrimmage. He could take on a Nate Miekle role, and catch short passes out of the backfield.
Cornerback - Someone is bound to step up. It sounds like the talent level is there. Who will it be? It could be a couple of guys: Howard, Johnson, Pittman, or Bradley.

Time will tell if this squad will be able to go undefeated and reach a BCS game. Right now it is all speculation and hype. Only one team in BYU history has gone undefeated, does this team have the makings of something that special. The players seem to believe. They are sold on the idea of "The Quest for Perfection."