BYU has had quite the season. The Cougars started 9-0 and looked like Playoff caliber. In the end, the Cougars finished 10-2 and are headed to the Alamo Bowl in San Antonio. It was still a great season filled with incredible moments such as Will Ferrin's game-winning field goal against Utah.
BYU has some dangerous offensive weapons on this year's team, namely running Back LJ Martin who has run over opponents while Jake Retzlaff's dual run-pass threat causes defenses to second-guess themselves. Add on the incredible kick-return abilities of Keelan Marion and BYU can run up the score in a hurry. However, BYU struggles to stop the run, and mobile quarterbacks give the Cougar defense a lot of trouble. BYU must be careful and tighten up at the line of scrimmage.
Pre-Game Notes for the BYU Cougars
BYU's powerful offense can score a lot of points, which could be useful for countering Colorado's strong offense. With a strong blend of run, pass, and RPO BYU can definitely move the ball. One play in particular stands out. The double pass, when done right, is a dangerous play with a large chance of scoring.
BYU's defense is turnover-hungry. The Cougars lead the country in interceptions with 20 picks in the regular season. BYU has a good pass rush that forces poor throws from the quarterback, leading to interceptions. BYU's defense was praised all season with players like Tyler Batty, Isiah Glakser, and Jack Kelly getting pressure and Crew Wakely and Marque Collins getting in the passing lanes and taking it away.
The Cougars are struggling to stop the run and Colorado's Isaiah Augustave could be a tough test for the BYU defensive line. Augustave is a strong, physical runner and BYU has shown struggles with running backs like Cam Skataboo and Ollie Gordon. BYU stopping the run will be critical for winning this game.
BYU Pre-Game Checklist
- BYU has a dangerous pass game. They will have to prevent turnovers and mitigate sacks while maximizing yards.
- BYU on defense can be aggressive but gets exposed on the run. BYU will have to win the line of scrimmage and stop Augustave.
- BYU has a strong special teams unit. Field Goals and kick returns will be essential for BYU to win.
Pre-Game Notes for the Colorado Buffaloes
Colorado has been elite. Coming off of a 9-3 season under Head Coach Deion Sanders, the Buffaloes are a force to be reckoned with. Two-way player Travis Hunter has multiple interceptions and receptions for Colorado. The Buffaloes are red hot and can beat anyone.
Colorado has turned themselves around since last year's 4-8 season. Quarterback Shedeur Sanders has been electric, completing 74.2 percent of his passes for an average of 8.6 yards per play. Travis Hunter is also a great defender, with several interceptions. Mix the hot Buffalo offense with the strong defense and Colorado is a tough team to beat.
Colorado Pre-Game Checklist
- Colorado has the offensive weapons to run up the score, They will need to avoid turnovers while making big plays.
- Colorado is going to have their hands full with LJ Martin and Darius Lassiter. The defense will need to stay alert and not get disorganized.
- Colorado's Travis Hunter has played the whole season as a two-way player. Colorado's coaching staff will need to be careful with his minutes.