BYU vs Kansas pregame checklist: The Cougars cling to their undefeated record
By Jake Olsen
BYU again found a way, knocking off rival Utah in Salt Lake. The Cougars will be in Provo to face the Kansas Jayhawks, a team that recently knocked off Iowa State 45-36 at Arrowhead Stadium. The Cougars struggled against the Utes, with off-target passes and unnecessary penalties. BYU will have to clean things up before playing Kansas on Saturday.
The Cougars have to stay focused and not get too cocky--this only leads to disappointment. If BYU can remain humble, then they could be a really strong opponent in this year's postseason. The Cougars have made it this far and cannot afford to let up now.
BYU's defense had its hands full in the second quarter against Utah, with defensive coordinator Jay Hill struggling to find an answer to the Ute onslaught, led by quarterback Brandon Rose and it wasn't until the third quarter that the Cougars figured out how to stop the Utes. If BYU wants to beat a rising Kansas team, they will have to start strong on offense, defense, and special teams. The Cougars cannot afford a slow start.
Pre-Game Notes for BYU
BYU has been unpredictable, sometimes playing lights out and blowing out teams like Kansas State and other times struggling against teams like Oklahoma State. On a good day, BYU can run up the score and put up big numbers. The mix of Retzlaff, Martin, and Roberts has proven to be quite lethal when they are hot.
BYU's defense was up and down against Utah, allowing 21 points in the second quarter. BYU has a strong defense, led by Tyler Batty with strength in numbers, blitzing and dropping in coverage as one, forcing turnovers. BYU has a strong pass rush, forcing quarterbacks to decide between making poor throws or getting sacked.
BYU's highlight is its special teams. With three special teams touchdowns, BYU has had some big points when they are kicked to, making teams consider kicking or punting the ball away from any return. Ferrin is 85% on field goals with a long of 54 yards, which was obtained against Baylor. The special teams have been strong all season and Will Ferrin seems confident in his ability to kick under pressure. If BYU can keep their special teams hot, they could have some real potential in the Playoff.
Pre-Game Checklist for the BYU Cougars
- BYU's offense is variable. Sometimes they are playing hard and other times they are struggling. The Cougars need a strong showing from Jake Retzlaff and the offense if they want to beat KU.
-BYU has a strong defense that can get to the quarterback well. If the Cougars can get to Jalon Daniels, they could force sacks and turnovers that could lead to points.
-BYU's crowd is loud, especially at night. The Cougars will want to score quickly and get the home crowd energized.
Pre-Game Notes for Kansas
Kansas has been a disappointment this year, sitting at 3-6. Last year they finished 9-4, with a 38-27 win against BYU. The Jayhawks have been a flop, to say the least. They have beaten Lindenwood, Houston, and Iowa State. The victory against the Cyclones has BYU fans worried. With an efficient pass game and strong run game, BYU could have a real test on Saturday.
Despite the losing season, Kansas has a few bright spots. Jalon Daniels mixed with running back Devin Neal could expose the BYU run defense and grind out chunk plays that could be costly. Kansas' defense, which held Iowa State to 4-11 on third down, could be a strong force for BYU's offense to figure out. If Kansas can bring the heat to Jake Retzlaff, they could find early success.
Pre-Game Checklist for the Kansas Jayhawks
- Kansas has shown promise in games offensively. averaging 31.7 points per game. If they can get hot early, they could put BYU in a deep hole.
- The Jayhawks have had five one-score games. If the Jayhawks want to win, they will need to execute in the late-game drives.
- BYU has a history of forcing visiting teams to false start. Kansas will need to be strong and find ways to communicate without being affected by the crowd noise.
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