That pretty much sums it up for me. I must admit, given BYU’s recent record in big games (*ahem* TCU, UofU, UofA *ahem*) I didn’t give them much chance of winning this game. I was just hoping BYU would give a respectable showing. Well, they did! I’ve got to give mad props to Jaimie Hill and the defense for an awesome game. They fought hard and only had a few penalties (1 facemask and and 2 extremely questionable pass interference calls). And that fourth-quarter goal-line stand…AWESOME. I mean, they held a team whose Heisman-winning QB led them to average 51 points per game last year to only 13. Yes he got hurt right before halftime (and I wish him a speedy recovery), but they only had 10 points at that time. And the way they were playing, I don’t think they were going to get 41 more in the second half. The secondary looks much improved (holding the afore-mentioned Heisman Winner to 96 yards in the half) and came up with big breakups when it mattered. Regarding their two pass interference penalties, the first looked uncatchable anyway, and the second one didn’t look like his arm was actually touching the receiver in the end zone. Too bad those aren’t reviewable penalties.
The offense was pretty good even without Unga. Bryan Kariya was a pleasant surprise. Max still makes some scary decisions with the ball, but Pitta is money. Andrew George had a good game, too. Jacobson redeemed himself with the go-ahead touchdown, and Chambers looked good before his fumble. I’m sure he’ll shake it off and do well. That last drive was impressive, as they converted 3rd-an-8, 3rd-and-10, 3rd-and-6, and 4th-and-4. Special teams are still a crap shoot, although that was a great play by the punting unit to down it at the one. All-in-all, should be a fun season to watch.
Anyway, those are my thoughts. Click here for additional thoughts about last night’s game. And byucouagars.com has a pretty good slideshow.
Rah, rah, rah-rah-rah
Rah, rah, rah-rah-rah
Rah, rah, rah-rah-rah
Goooooooo COUGARS!!!