Ranking BYU’s Opposing Defenses in 2014

Nov 10, 2012; El Paso, TX, USA; UTEP Miners running back Nathan Jeffery (25) dives forward for the end zone against the UCF Knights defense during the first half at Sun Bowl stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ivan Pierre Aguirre-USA TODAY Sports

1. UCF

BYU @ UCF Thursday, October 9

10 returning starters on a defense that led UCF to an upset win in a Fiesta Bowl should prove to be the toughest defense BYU faces in 2014.  In 2013, UCF allowed 346 yards per game, which was good enough for 19th in the country.  Last year, the Knights’ defense was led by a stiff run defense, but look for the secondary to be the strength in 2014.

Player to Watch: Terrence Plummer, MLB.  Last year, Plummer led the defense with 110 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss including 2.5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, and 2 interceptions.