BYU Football: The worst and best case scenarios for the Cougars
By Adam Gibby
Game 9: San Jose State
Worst Case Scenario: The good news, BYU is now projected to go to a bowl game again. The bad news, they lose to San Jose State. For whatever reason, San Jose State always plays BYU close. This is the case again as the Cougars are not able to shake off the Spartans all game. Although leading the entire game, the game is always within one score. The Spartans score a touchdown with 25 seconds left and convert a two point conversion to take the lead.
Final Score 36-35 Loss (3-6, not ranked)
Best Case Scenario: The Cougars are back in Provo and finally are able to put a team away by halftime. Despite the recent history of San Jose State being able to stay close with BYU, they are unable to find points against the huge defensive front of the Cougars. Tanner Mangum appears in the Heisman race for the first time after this game with over 400 yards passing (again). Due to lack of good opponents, the Cougars do not move up in the polls.
Final Score 54-14 Win (8-1, ranked No. 7)
Game 10: Fresno State
Worst Case Scenario: Fresno State is a really bad team. Possibly the worst team that BYU football will play all season. Last season, the Bulldogs went 1-1, only defeating Sacramento State. This should be an absolute blowout for the Cougars. However, because they are not motivated, the Cougars only end up winning by 14. Also, Beau Hoge goes down with an injury meaning that third string quarterback Koy Detmer Jr. now is the starter.
Final Score 35-21 Win (4-6, not ranked)
Best Case Scenario: Tanner Mangum only plays in the first quarter and throws for 200 yards. Beau Hoge only plays until the end of the third quarter and Koy Detmer Jr. gets to play the whole fourth quarter. Every running back on the roster gets at least four touches and three receivers who have never caught a pass in a Cougar uniform make their first catches of the season. The stadium in Fresno echoes of “B-Y-U” chants late in the fourth quarter. Cougars roll. Although a bad opponent, the win margin over the last two weeks impresses the playoff committee and the Cougars move up one spot.
Final Score 63-10 Win (9-1, ranked No. 6)