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BYU football: Three predictions for Portland State

By Nathan Cunningham

PROVO, UT - SEPTEMBER 21: General view as fans fill LaVell Edwards Stadium before the start of a game between the BYU Cougars and the Utah Utes September 21, 2013 at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo, Utah. (Photo by George Frey/Getty Images)
PROVO, UT - SEPTEMBER 21: General view as fans fill LaVell Edwards Stadium before the start of a game between the BYU Cougars and the Utah Utes September 21, 2013 at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo, Utah. (Photo by George Frey/Getty Images) /
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BYU football will return to LaVell Edwards Stadium for a game for the first time since November 26, 2016 as the Cougars host the Portland State Vikings.

It will be a game of interesting dynamics. LES won’t be full. The ROC student section won’t be full. In fact, most of Cougar Nation will already being eyeing BYU football’s matchup with LSU the following week.

But overlooking PSU is a dangerous thing to do. We’ve seen time and time again how upsets can – and will – happen.

Here are three predictions for BYU football’s opening game.

No. 1: Riley Burt leads the Cougars in rushing

As it currently stands, Squally Canada is BYU football’s starting running back. However, the coaching staff has been pretty open about it being a backfield by committee situation.

That means the Cougars’ No. 2 running back, Riley Burt, will get his share of action.

Canada might lead the team in carries, but I think Burt’s explosiveness will be a big factor against Portland State. He only needs an inch to break off a big run – and he’ll find more than an inch against the Vikings.

No. 2: Matt Bushman will catch a TD pass

Matt Bushman will factor into the offense on Saturday, because he factors into the offense every time he takes the field. He seems to make an impressive play every practice – which will continue against Portland State.

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I fully expect Bushman to find some holes against the Vikings. One of those holes will be in the end zone, and he’ll finish the day with his first career touchdown.

No. 3: BYU football forces three turnovers

Portland State’s first string quarterback is a converted wide receiver in Josh Kraght. Kraght is a talented player, but isn’t overly proven as a passer.

Once the Cougars start to break the game open, Portland State will be forced to abandon the running game. When the Vikings become one dimensional, that’s when the BYU defense will strike.

The Cougars’ ball-hawking ways will continue in 2017, as BYU picks off at least two passes in game one.

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