Pre-game checklist: BYU vs Wyoming, everything you should know

BYU survived their Week 2 test in Dallas with a narrow 18-15 victory over SMU. With another game done, it's time to look ahead to week three and Wyoming. A matchup against an old foe will be a good throwback. BYU won their first-ever game in program history against the Cowboys, with a single touchdown being the deciding factor.

Last week BYU fought out a tough win against SMU after a poor offensive showing. The defense came up big on several occasions and even forced two turnovers. BYU's offense will look to get back on track in Laramie on Saturday.

The old Mountain West and WAC matchup will be renewed with both sides looking to take a win. BYU has dominated the last few matchups winning nine straight. BYU will look to keep their winning season intact as they head into week three. The last time the Cougars played the Cowboys, they beat them 38-24.

This year's Cougars handled their week two opponent well despite miscues from Jake Retzlaff. If BYU wants to compete this year, they must limit turnovers and maximize opportunities. Wyoming is one of those teams that BYU could get in trouble with if they get too careless. It could be risky if BYU underestimates the Cowboys and it is a good time for BYU to learn how to make every snap count.

After a tough test in Dallas, the Cougars will happily play a struggling Wyoming team. If you are like me, this may seem like a trap game. BYU's offense still needs to fix some things but the defense looks strong. After last year's losing season, things are starting to look upward.

This week, BYU is expected to win. However, despite being given an 86.4% chance to win by ESPN's FPI, I am not certain about a win. This team still has a lot to prove and if they want to make a statement, they will have to clean some things up before Big 12 play starts. For now, let's just look at this week's game. I have assembled a game-day checklist for BYU vs Wyoming to show BYU fans why they should be excited or why they might need to brace themselves.

Pregame Notes for the Cougars

- BYU and Wyoming were rivals in the Mountain West and WAC, with BYU winning 18 out of the last 20 and nine straight.
- BYU's offense struggled against SMU with three turnovers from redshirt junior quarterback Jake Retzlaff. If they want to win in Laramie, they will have to clean up their miscues.
- BYU's defense kept SMU out of the end zone all game. If they want to beat Wyoming, the defense will need to stay aggressive.

Wyoming Pregame Checklist

After a rough start, Wyoming will be looking to get their first win of the year against old rival BYU. After a blowout loss to Arizona State and a narrow defeat to FCS giant Idaho, the Cowboys want to get their season back on track. Against Idaho, Evan Svoboda threw for 126 yards and one touchdown while running back DJ Jones rushed for 80 yards on 17 carries.

While it may seem like the Cowboys are struggling offensively, they are just one moment away from a big turnaround. While a loss to an FCS team may not be a good look, BYU should be wary of this team, especially if the Cougars get too comfortable and think this will be a sound victory.

Welcome to the Wild West, Cougar Nation.

Pregame Notes for the Cowboys

- BYU's offense is known to have a strong passing attack, so the Cowboy's defense will have to be alert downfield.
- BYU's defense is aggressive and will look to get sacks. Wyoming will have to protect the quarterback and get passes off quickly.
- Wyoming is winless so if they want to save their season then a win against BYU is important.

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