BYU special on special teams as Cougars jump all over Colorado in the first half

Never underestimate the importance of the kicking game, especially in the college football postseason where opt-outs and transfers can often lead to mistakes in that department. In tonight's Valero Alamo Bowl, BYU is putting on a clinic on special teams, and that has staked the Cougars to a 20-0 lead over Colorado.

In the first quarter, kicker Will Ferrin drilled a 51-yard field goal to put his team up 10-0. He entered the game 21-24 on field goal attempts and all season, he's been one of the most reliable kickers in the Big 12.

Then, on the ensuing kickoff, Ferrin successfully executed an on-side kick. However, that would prove to be for naught as that extra possession would end in a BYU interception.

Fortunately, another big play in the kicking game was coming BYU's way. Late in the second quarter, Parker Kingston: returned a Colorado punt 64 yards for a touchdown to give the Cougars their 17-point halftime lead.

This season, Kingston averaged 10.9 yards per punt return on 12 opportunities. This was his first return TD of the season.

Then, to end the half, Ferrin drilled a 54-yard field goal. That gave the Cougars all the momentum as they went to the locker room.

Meanwhile, the Buffs haven't had as much luck with their kicking game. On top of all of the BYU successes mentioned above, Colorado missed a 48-yard FG off the foot of Alejandro Mata.

The only factor keeping this game even relatively close has been turnovers as the Cougars are losing that battle 2-0. However, they are making up for it by dominating on special teams and they will look to keep that going in the second half as these two Big 12 bunkmates battle in San Antonio.