BYU Photo
BYU vs Kansas will be a good Big 12 opener and another great road game for the Cougars. The keys listed below should help the Cougars win.
BYU
Offense
This week the Cougar offense has to be flawless to win this game. All aspects have to be at the top of their game and ready to take every inch that Kansas gives them. First, they have to kill the clock and not give Kansas many opportunities with the ball so no punting more than like five times this weekend. Second, they need more rushing yards Aaron Roderick needs to cut LJ Martin loose and let him run the ball. Finally, Kedon Slovis can’t overthrow his receivers every play and keep his passes smart when throwing the ball late in the play.
Defense
The Cougar defense will also need to be on the top of their game and keep the Kansas offense on the opposite of the 50 yard line. This defense has been great so far not letting teams put up too many yards and making them go three and out. This will be another true test for them on what they are made of. Lastly, the safeties need to not let the wide receivers get downfield.
Special Teams
The BYU special teams haven’t been out of this world this season. The punt game is the only one that has been consistent. They have to be consistent in pinning Kansas deep and keeping them behind the 20-yard line after the returner catches that ball. Finally, Will Ferrin will need to help the Cougars get any extra points and field goals if BYU can’t get in the end zone.
Kansas
Offense
This Kansas offense is dangerous once they get past the line of scrimmage. Their running backs are big and will lower their shoulder to gain more yards. The Kansas quarterback is quick and will fight to get the ball out no matter what. They did struggle last week against Nevada so if BYU can catch them off guard they could get another upset.
Defense
The Jayhawk defense is fast and hits hard. They do struggle to stop the run game once it gets past the line so that could be good for BYU if they can get the run game rolling. They are also quick to the quarterback so Kedon Slovis will have to get the ball out quick. Lastly, they are quick to the ball down the field so the wide receivers have to catch the ball with a cornerback right there on top of them.
