Ranking BYU’s Opposing Defenses in 2014

Oct 26, 2012; Colorado Springs, CO, USA; Nevada Wolf Pack defensive end Brock Hekking (53) and linebacker Albert Rosette (51) watch as Air Force Falcons running back Jon Lee (24) lands on his head after a tackle by defensive back Duke Williams (not pictured) in the second quarter of the game at Falcon Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

8. Nevada

Nevada @ BYU Saturday, October 18

Nevada returns 10 starters from a defense that ranked 117 in total defense last year, giving up an average of 505 yards per game.  It’s always interesting to see if returning that many starters from a bad team is really a good thing.  For the Wolfpack, I believe it is.  The front seven will be stout and the secondary is uncertain.  Last year, BYU had a slow start in Reno before Jamaal Williams took over.  The Cougs averaged nearly nine yards a carry last year and this year we’ll likely see strength against strength as the Pack should be stronger up front.  If Taysom can connect on the pass, it shouldn’t be tough to move the ball in this one.

Player to Watch:  Brock Hekking, DE.  An all-MWC selection last year, Hekking had 48 tackles, 9 sacks, and 1 interception.