Ranking BYU’s Opposing Defenses in 2014

Sep 14, 2013; Logan, UT, USA; Utah State Aggies linebacker Kyler Fackrell (9) tackles Weber State Wildcats running back Josh Booker (24) during the second quarter at Romney Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Chris Nicoll-USA TODAY Sports

3. Utah State

USU @ BYU Friday, October 3

Utah State would likely be ranked higher on the list if there were not glaring questions on their defense in 2014.  2013 saw the Aggies finish ranked 12 in total defense, allowing 332 yards per game.  Only four starters from that defense return.  Gone are Jake Doughty and Nevin Lawson, who were both First Team MWC last year.  BJ Larsen is back to anchor the defensive line, and Kyler Fackrell and Zach Vigil are receiving a lot of hype heading into the season.  USU’s line and secondary are questionable, but the linebacking corps could be the best the Cougars see in 2014.

Player to Watch:  Kyler Fackrell, OLB.  Aggie fans are claiming that Fackrell will be better than Kyle Van Noy.  While Fackrell is a great player, I’m not ready to give him the same due as KVN.  Fackrell had 87 tackles, 8 tackles for loss, 3 sacks, 2 interceptions, and a forced and recovered fumble as a sophomore in 2013.