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2019 Seasonâ€ƒ 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Editor’s note

t’s been 3,557 days.

Yes, Cougar fans, that’s how long it’s been since BYU has beaten its rivals to the north. And I know you’re tired of hearing, “Nine is coming,” from the Ute fan next door, but guess what? So are the players. This offseason, after a heart-breaking 3527 loss at Rice-Eccles Stadium last November, the BYU football team is focused on its 2019 opening opponent, the Utes from Utah. But when it comes to this season, both the team and fans alike can not be solely focused on the season opener. With games against Tennessee, USC and Washington to follow, the beginning to the 2019 campaign is a daunting one. This magazine, a preview to the 2019 BYU football season, tries to focus on the year as a whole, but like the loyal, strong and true fans, along with the players and coaches, it’s hard not to fixate on Aug. 29 at LaVell Edwards Stadium. We, the staff at the Daily Herald, are proud of this 2019 BYU Football Preview magazine. From the writing of Jared Lloyd and Darnell Dickson, to the photography of Isaac Hale and the design skills of Heather Marcus to bring it all together, this project has been a team effort. We look forward to seeing what lies in store for the Cougars, not only in the Holy War, but throughout the 2019 football season, and we wish coach Kalani Sitake and his team good luck as they work towards their goals is fall. Phillip Morgan Sports Editor

What is offseason hype vs. reality? — 5 Jared & Darnell go 1 on 1 — 6 Position by position breakdown — 8 2018 opponents breakdown — 10, 11, 15-20 Face of BYU — 2 Who knows coach Eric Mateos best? — 21 Last word — 22 FOOTBALL P R E VIEW U T A H

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ON THE COVER PHOTOS BY ISAAC HALE, DAILY HERALD

Brigham Young University head coach Kalani Sitake along with junior defensive lineman Khyiris Tonga pose for a portrait (left) and University of Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham and senior defensive tackle Leki Fotu pose. The two teams will meet Aug. 29 at LaVell Edwards Stadium. 4 Daily Herald BYU Football Preview

T E A M

Scott Blonde Publisher

Jared Lloyd Writer

Jim Konig General Manager/Ad Director

Darnell Dickson Writer

Jordan Carroll Managing Editor + Digital Editor

Philip Morgan Design

Craig Conover Retail Manager

Photograpy Isaac Hale

HYPE VS. REALITY

BYU fans brace for 2019 season with hope in their hearts BY DARNELL DICKSON

Daily Herald

College football fans love to ride the hype train … until it derails. Sportswriters contribute to the hype in the preseason, but somewhat inadvertently. We would love to see enough practice to give you a fair and balanced view of how your favorite football team will do, but in reality, we get to see 10-15 minutes of practice maybe twice a week and none of the scrimmages. Much of what we report is what the coaches and players tell us happened in practice. So if anyone is blamed for hyping the team, it’s the message from those individuals. Don’t shoot the messenger. Still, it’s always fun to examine what we’re hearing and what would be more based on the reality. Welcome to “Hype vs. Reality, 2019.”

Hype: Zach Wilson is the next great BYU quarterback. Reality: He’s only a sophomore, has started just seven games and is coming off of shoulder surgery. Wilson gave everyone a glimpse of his potential with his perfect performance in the Potato Bowl. But he also struggled in some games (Northern Illinois, Boise State) and everyone returns from injury at a different pace. Since reporters aren’t allowed to see much of practice, it’s kind of hard to tell where he is in getting his arm strength and mobility down. The Cougars hope the running game can be effective to set up Wilson for success. If he’s got to do it all by himself, is he ready?

Hype: BYU has increased its depth and that will result in more wins. Reality: The Cougars have struggled late in the season when injuries start taking their toll. BYU had a 27-7 third quarter lead at Utah but lost the game, essentially because attrition due to injury had the Cougars down to third and fourth string guys at some key positions. The coaches feel like the roster is deeper but against Power 5 schools, that still might not be enough to overcome some significant matchup issues at certain positions, no matter what the depth may be.

Hype: BYU has some great games at home and that will result in victories. Reality: The Cougars are just 10-8 at home under Kalani Sitake. It’s probably the most disappointing aspect of the Sitake era: Not being able to win key games at home. In 2016, a three-point loss to UCLA was costly. In 2017, it was the Utah game. In 2018, Cal, Utah

State and Northern Illinois losses were head scratchers. It’s great to see Utah, USC and Washington in LaVell Edwards Stadium, but attendance will drop off pretty quickly if the Cougars lose to the Utes.

Hype: Seniors Micah Simon and Aleva Hifo are ready to step up and be go-to receivers. Reality: Wide receiver coach Fesi Sitake said Simon, Hifo, Gunner Romney, Talon Shumway and Dax Milne were the top five receivers during fall camp. Those five players combined for 85 catches, 1,033 yards and eight touchdowns last season. At 12 yards per reception and an average of around five yards after the catch, there is certainly room for improvement. With Wilson at the helm, all five of these receivers will have opportunities to improve their numbers.

Hype: The schedule is the toughest in the country. Reality: You just never know. That’s the crazy thing about BYU’s independent schedule. Remember when the Cougars were huge underdogs at Michigan State, but pulled off a dominant victory? Or when BYU went to Wisconsin and scored a huge upset? The Cougars are the only team in the country opening the season with four games against Power 5 schools, and that’s a significant task. But there will always be an overhyped team, or a team such as Toledo or USF where BYU will be favored but will struggle.

Hype: BYU has the depth to replace Sione Takitaki and Corbin Kaufusi on defense. Reality: Man, those two guys were such great playmakers and leaders. It’s up to returners like Zayne Anderson, Dayan Ghanwoloku, Khyiris Tonga and Isaiah Kaufusi to step forward and make up for the loss of the seniors. That’s what makes the turnover so interesting, because when seniors move on, everyone return must change their role to some extent.

Hype: This is the best offensive line BYU has had in years. Reality: The front end of the schedule is such a huge test. Getting four starters back on the offensive line is a big deal, but they will be facing quality Power 5 talent to start the season. Utah has been ranked among the nation’s best defensive fronts and Tennessee, USC and Washington will have four and five-star talent in the trenches. The BYU offense, even with Wilson returning at quarterback, is still based on being able to run the ball effectively. There is a lot on the offensive line as the season starts. Follow Darnell Dickson on Twitter @darnellwrites or e-mail him at ddickson@heraldextra.com. 2019 Season 5

1-on-1

Can the Cougars finally break the losing streak against Utah? EVAN COBB, DAILY HERALD

The Daily Herald’s BYU sports experts Jared Lloyd and Darnell Dickson weigh in on five of the biggest questions facing the Cougars this fall:

1. If BYU beats Utah after eight straight losses, what will be the deciding factor? LLOYD: With a series that has been as close as this one has

over the last three decades, I think the answer is pretty clear: Make the LAST big play. How many times have the Cougars needed just one more score, a couple more yards, a lucky bounce, something and then we wouldn’t even be talking about this streak? Whether on offense, defense or special teams, you have to credit the Utes for being the ones to finish off the game. BYU has to take that out of Utah’s hands if it wants to get back to beating its rival.

DICKSON: The Cougars will win if they claim the turnover bat-

tle. It seems as if every season the Utes get a defensive touchdown or an easy score off of a dumb BYU turnover, last year being a pretty good example of that. I think the Cougar offense will be more efficient this season and be able to score more points, but they will put themselves behind the eight ball if they turn the ball over or allow a pick 6 against the Utes.

2. What would you consider a successful season for BYU in 2019?

Daily Herald sports reporters Darnell Dickson, left, and Jared Lloyd answer tough questions about BYU.

I would say an 8-4 mark and a bowl game is a good goal. Anything less than that would feel like more of the same and the Cougar fan base would not be happy.

LLOYD: It’s easy to say that a little more luck would’ve resulted

in BYU being 11-2 in 2018 (with wins over Cal, Northern Illinois, Boise State and Utah) but a little less luck could’ve seen the Cougars drop to 4-8 (with losses at Arizona and Wisconsin). Good teams make their own luck, so my measuring stick for success is seeing that BYU imposes its will on more games in 2019. Sometimes an opponent simply plays a better game (like Washington and Utah State did last fall) but it isn’t happening that often. I can’t see anyone on this Cougar squad at all satisfied with anything less than 8-4 and 9-3 should be a solid, attainable objective for a team with this many returning players.

3. Who will be the Cougars’ leading rusher in 2019? LLOYD: This isn’t as clear-cut as it appeared to be coming out

of 2018, but I’m still going to give the nod to Lopini Katoa. I think both Ty’Son Williams and Emmanual Esukpa are going to be solid contributors and so I don’t expect any of the BYU running backs to gain more than 600 or 700 yards on the ground — but I still think Katoa has a slight advantage because of his familiarity with the offense. If he stays healthy, I see him having a better year than he did last year and just edging out the other backs for the most rushing yards.

DICKSON: I walked past grad transfer Ty’Son Williams as he

was interviewed after a recent practice, and man, that dude is put together. With his second-level speed, I think he could be and a New Year’s Six bowl game? Realistically, BYU could be bet- pretty special. Lopini Katoa has put in the work this summer and ter than it was in 2018 and still struggle to get its record above should be a factor as well. But I’ll go with Williams due to his .500, especially with such a daunting September schedule. So breakaway speed.

DICKSON: Shoot for the stars, right? How about an 11-1 record

6 Daily Herald BYU Football Preview

ISAAC HALE, DAILY HERALD

BYU fans hold up flags as they cheer during a game between Brigham Young University and McNeese State University held Sept. 22, 2018, at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo.

4. Who will be the Cougars’ 5. What will BYU’s home leading receiver in 2019? record be in 2019? DICKSON: If it’s not tight end Matt Bushman, the coaches

need a refresher course on football. He averaged better than 17 yards per catch last season, but caught only 29 passes. That’s not nearly enough targets coming his way. He needs to catch 50 or more this season and I think BYU has the quarterback to get that done.

LLOYD: I have no doubt that Matt Bushman will be the main

focus of opposing defenses when the Cougars go to the air, which means it will be up to him to still make plays — and up to everyone else to make the other team pay by exploiting other holes. I’m going to select Aleva Hifo as my pick for the BYU players who has the most catches, since I think offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes is going to look to get him the ball in a variety of ways so he can use his speed and shiftiness to make things happen. Don’t sleep on Gunner Romney, Micah Simon and Talon Shumway on the outside, though. If one of those guys is a consistent threat, it will make things much easier for Hifo and Bushman.

LLOYD: How can any Cougar fan not be excited for the over-

all home slate in 2019? BYU has Utah, USC, Washington and Boise State all coming to Provo, which might be the best home schedule since the mid-2000s (2003 was pretty sweet when Georgia Tech, USC, Stanford and Boise State visited LaVell Edwards Stadium). But these opponents all have question marks heading into this fall, so figuring out just how good any of them are going to be is a guessing game. The Cougars should win the two November home games, but the rest should be exciting. I’m going to say BYU goes 4-2 with a couple of nice home victories over high-level competition.

DICKSON: Home has not been where the heart is for BYU since

Kalani Sitake took over. The Cougars went 5-1 at home in Sitake’s first season (2015) but since has gone just 5-7. There is no excuse for losing to Utah State at home (2018), or Northern Illinois while scoring only two field goals (2018), or to UMass in 2017. The only way Sitake gets this train back on track is by defending the home turf. Anything less than 4-2 at LaVell Edwards Stadium this season is unacceptable, even though the schedule is a tough one. 2019 Season 7

POSITION BREAKDOWN

Strengths appear to be on the offensive line and at safety JARED LLOYD

Daily Herald

BYU football beat writer Jared Lloyd breaks down each position group for the Cougars heading into 2019:

Quarterback

This is Zach Wilson’s team now, as long as he stays healthy. The sophomore worked hard on developing mentally as he recovered from offseason shoulder surgery, so in theory he should make reads more effectively. He still has to prove he can lead the team to wins over good opponents. Jaren Hall isn’t far behind and might give BYU options to be creative with his athleticism.

Preseason Grade: B+

Running back This unit has great potential with a lot of unknowns. BYU’s leading rusher from 2018 returns — but Lopini Katoa only had 423 yards on the ground. The Cougars added transfers Ty’Son Williams and Emmanuel Esukpa but they are learning the offense. All of the guys have skills but how the repetitions get spread around and how many stay healthy will certainly impact the success of this group.

Preseason Grade: B

Tight end

It’s impossible to ignore what junior Matt Bushman should be capable of doing but he’s going to need help. Injuries and academic question marks might 8 Daily Herald BYU Football Preview

limit the other guys but Moroni Laulu-Pututau, Joe Tukuafu and a host of young players should find ways to pick up the slack.

Preseason Grade: B+

Receiver

This is still a unit with something to prove heading into 2019. Aleva Hifo is a solid slot receiver who can make things happen but players like Talon Shumway, Gunner Romney, Dax Milne and Micah Simon also have to be much more consistent and dangerous for the BYU offense to truly excel in the passing game.

Preseason Grade: C+

Offensive line With four returning starters and others who have experience, there is plenty of reason to believe BYU is ready to take a big step forward in the trenches. James Empey, Brady Christensen, Tristen Hoge and Keanu Saleapaga should be better, while guys like Thomas Shoaf, Kieffer Longson, Harris LaChance and Chandon Herring will also be in the mix. With Jeff Grimes involved in the development, this should be an area of strength in 2019.

Preseason Grade: A-

Defensive line

The Cougars need to continue to increase their performance level at the point of attack and they have guys who are capable. Look for junior Khyiris Tonga to be tough to stop in the middle, while returners like Trajan Pili, Zac Dawe, Bracken El-Bakri and Devin Kaufusi bring a lot of experience. Don’t be surprised if Earl Tuoti-Mariner, Uriah Leiataua and Lorenzo Fauatea emerge as playmakers as well.

Preseason Grade: B-

Linebacker It’s tough to ignore what Zayne Anderson and Isaiah Kaufusi have already shown on the field — but they’ve also dealt with injury issues. BYU has a stable of potential stars in players like Kavika Fonua, Jackson Kaufusi, Chaz Ah You and Payton Wilgar, but they still have steps to make.

Preseason Grade: A-

Secondary

ISAAC HALE DAILY HERALD

With Austin Lee, Malik Moore and Sawyer Powell in as capable safeties, BYU has options with what it decides to do with Dayan Ghanwoloku — who can be a force at any secondary position. BYU has D’Angelo Mandell and Isaiah Herron back with experience at cornerback, as well as a number of talented young players. The depth of the unit might be impacted by the health of Chris Wilcox and Troy Warner, who are recovering from injuries.

Preseason Grade: A-

Special Teams The Cougars have a kicking battle between Skyler Southam and Jake Oldroyd, while those two are also competing with Danny Jones for the punting duties. BYU should be solid — although maybe not incredibly explosive — in the return game while the expectation for good kick and punt coverage is already in place.

Preseason Grade: B-

Brigham Young Cougars defensive lineman Khyiris Tonga (95) celebrates after a play during a game between Brigham Young University and the University of Utah held Nov. 24, 2018, at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City.

Preseason Grade: B

Coaching After extensive shuffling last year, the only chance on the entire coaching staff was adding Eric Mateos as the offensive line coach. Conceptually, the continuity should pay dividends for the BYU offense with everyone having better understanding of what the Cougars will be doing. The main goal for this staff is improving the team’s consistency while making more big plays.

2019 Season 9

ǀ A U G . 2 9 ǀ 8 : 1 5 P. M . M T ǀ ǀ ESPN ǀ ǀ L A V E L L E D W A R D S S TA D I U M ǀ

C R Y S TA L B A L L If BYU is shockingly good: After years of frustration, BYU finally puts together a complete game against Utah in all phases as the Cougars end their losing streak. If BYU takes a step backwards: The Utes make plays and force turnovers, something BYU fails to do as another close game goes to Utah. What will actually happen: Expect a one-possession game in the final minutes, since that’s how the trend has been throughout the last 25 years. Utah appears to have the edge mentally in those contests, however, and that isn’t a good sign for Cougar fans.

U TA H UTES

Head coach: Kyle Whittingham (15th year) 2018: 9-5 (6-3 Pac-12) Returning starters: 14 (7 off/7 def)

PREDICTIONS

Players to Watch: Tyler Huntley (Sr. QB), Britain Covey (Jr. WR), Julian Blackmon (Jr. CB), Bradlee Anae (Sr. DL)

JARED LLOYD

DARNELL DICKSON

PHILLIP MORGAN

26-25

23-20

34-31

Outlook: The Utes took advantage of a down year in the Pac-12 and reached the league title game. Now they come in with huge expectations, so it becomes a matter of dealing with the pressure as well as opponents.

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C R Y S TA L B A L L If BYU is shockingly good: The Cougar offense feasts on struggles by the Volunteer defense, putting up surprisingly big numbers. If BYU takes a step backwards: The athleticism and physicality of Tennessee proves to be too much as the Cougars are unable to keep up. What will actually happen: BYU won’t be intimidated by the opponent or the setting, grinding through another tough contest that is decided in the fourth quarter.

TENNESSEE VOLS Head coach: Jeremy Pruitt (2nd year) 2018: 5-7 (2-6 SEC)

PREDICTIONS JARED LLOYD

Returning starters: 16 (10 off/6 def)

DARNELL DICKSON

21-18

10 Daily Herald BYU Football Preview

23-20

PHILLIP MORGAN

35-21

Players to Watch: Jarrett Guarantano (Jr. QB), Ty Chandler (Jr. RB), Darrell Taylor (Sr, LB) and Nigel Warrior (Sr. S) Outlook: The Volunteers had games where they played at a high level last year but are looking to find more consistency. This is a Tennessee team with a lot more experience this year and hopes to be a darkhorse in the SEC.

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C R Y S TA L B A L L If BYU is shockingly good: The Cougar defense wreaks havoc on the Trojan offensive line, allowing BYU to capitalize on costly mistakes. If BYU takes a step backwards: BYU loses the field position battle, putting its defense in bad positions and allowing USC to get in rhythm. What will actually happen: The Cougars will come out strong and put the Trojans on their heels, then have to hold off a late USC charge.

USC TROJANS

Head coach: Clay Helton (5th year) 2018: 5-7 (4-5 Pac-12)

Returning starters: 11 (6 off/5 def)

PREDICTIONS

Players to Watch: JT Daniels (So. QB), Amon-Ra St. Brown (So. WR), Jay Tufelel (So. DT), John Houston (Sr. LB)

JARED LLOYD

DARNELL DICKSON

PHILLIP MORGAN

29-23

34-17

38-31

Outlook: The Trojans will look to get back on track after a tough 2018 campaign. As always, USC is loaded with talented athletes but still has to improve execution in all aspects of the game to reach its potential.

ǀ S E P T. 2 1 ǀ T B A ǀ ǀ ESPN NETWORKS ǀ ǀ L A V E L L E D W A R D S S TA D I U M ǀ

C R Y S TA L B A L L If BYU is shockingly good: The Cougars roar out of the gate, surging ahead as they avenge their embarrassing at Washington in 2018. If BYU takes a step backwards: The Husky defense against stymies BYU and the visitors have a comfortable lead late in the game. What will actually happen: The biggest concern is how BYU’s depth will hold up as it faces a fourth-consecutive physical opponent. The Cougars will battle better than they did in 2018, but in the end it won’t be enough.

WASHINGTON HUSKIES Head coach: Chris Peterson (6th year) 2018: 10-4 (7-2 Pac 12) Returning starters: 9 (7 off/2 def)

PREDICTIONS JARED LLOYD

29-19

DARNELL DICKSON

24-10

PHILLIP MORGAN

35-14

Players to Watch: Jacob Eason (Jr. QB), Ty Jones (Jr. WR), Myles Bryant (Sr. NB), Benning Potoa’e (Sr. DL) Outlook: Washington proved itself to be the best in its league last season but lost of a lot of contributors. The Huskies should reload but the question is how long it will take for the team to be firing on all cylinders.

2019 Season

COVER STORY

ISAAC HALE, DAILY HERALD

Brigham Young Cougars defensive back Dayan Ghanwoloku (5) downs Utah Utes wide receiver Britain Covey (18) during a game between Brigham Young University and the University of Utah held Nov. 24, 2018, at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City.

Win now, win later

BYU football prepares for emotional challenges of starting season against rival Utah

JARED LLOYD

Daily Herald

Everyone following the BYU-Utah football rivalry knows that the Utes have won eight straight games. That’s a point of pride for Utah supporters and one of disappointment for Cougar fans. But how many know what happened in the next game after the rivalry contest for each team during that stretch? It might be surprising to know that the Utes lost their next game in five of those eight years while winning their next game just twice (the 2015 Las Vegas Bowl matchup was the final game of the year). The Cougars weren’t much better over that same stretch, managing just a 4-3 record after the Utah game. Those number indicate that playing such a physical and emotional game can have consequences that last long after the final whistle is blown. But no matter how big the season-opener on Aug. 29 is — and there is no doubt that it is the biggest annual sporting event in the state of Utah — one game doesn’t make a season. 12 Daily Herald BYU Football Preview

That means both teams — win or lose — have to understand the importance of being able to bounce back emotionally and continuing to play at a high level. “We have been trying to build up to this game for a long time now, since the last game ended,” BYU head coach Kalani Sitake said. “But it’s not just the game itself; it’s the season. This just happens to be the first game. The plan has been in place since January and everyone is following it.”

Leading the way

The Cougar seniors have faced the Utes multiple times and seen the toll those hard-fought nail-biters take, and this year that means facing it from the start. “I look at as I have to give it my all in Game 1 and then I have all week to recover,” BYU senior safety Austin Lee said. “It’s a very emotional game on both sides of the ball. They teach the same way and they don’t like to lose. We know what we are up against, that they are fast and physical and we have to be the same way — and we have to do it

ISAAC HALE, DAILY HERALD

Brigham Young Cougars linebacker Rhett Sandlin (46) celebrates after the Utah Utes was downed during a game between Brigham Young University and the University of Utah held Nov. 24, 2018, at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City. for four quarters. We have to be very focused.” But once the final whistle blows and the 2019 edition of the rivalry is over, the experienced Cougar players know they can’t get carried away in either celebration or disappointment. “We’ve been talking a lot throughout this offseason about keeping the same energy throughout any type of success or adversity,” BYU senior wide receiver Micah Simon said. “You have to be the same guy who comes to work every day. If you are, come and lead, one who is going to come and make plays, you have to do it every day. That keeps the level of everyone up. Throughout the season, you have to have the same hunger each week, coming off a win or a loss.”

Understanding the process

Cougar senior tight end Moroni Laulu-Pututau believes that experience and leadership play big roles in keeping the right perspective. “The best teams I’ve been on have had really good leaders who are older,” Laulu-Pututau said. “Then you have to have guys who are willing to follow those leaders. Last year we were really young and a lot of starters were freshmen. But a team can change so much from one year to the next. It’s night and day.” The BYU leaders believe it is up to them to make sure the team maintains an even keel and doesn’t get swamped. “It starts with us setting the example,” Simon said. “As an upperclassman, as a senior and as a former captain from last year, it’s kind of my job to be that person that others can look up to no matter what the situation. That’s the first thing that they see. As a freshman, you

ISAAC HALE DAILY HERALD

Brigham Young University senior wide receiver Micah Simon poses for a portrait during the football program’s photo day Aug. 7, at BYU’s Indoor Practice Facility in Provo. are going to come in and look at the upperclassmen because they’ve done it before. We can’t fall off or act a different way because something didn’t go right.” 2019 Season 13

ISAAC HALE, DAILY HERALD

University of Utah junior wide receiver Britain Covey poses for a portrait after preseason practice Aug. 9 at the Spence Eccles Field House in Salt Lake City.

BYU fans cheer after a drive by the Cougars ended near the end zone during a game between Brigham Young University and the University of Utah held Nov. 24, 2018, at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City.

The Cougar hope to benefit from the fact that with playing so many freshmen in 2018, there should be even more experience on the field this fall. “There are a lot of guys who benefit from it being familiar now,” Sitake said. “We have a lot of youth on our two-deep but we have young experienced guys now. Some are still brand new to it and having guys who have been there recently will help because they can mentor those who have less experience and help them through it.” Understanding the flow of a season and knowing the expectations is something Lee believes the underclassmen who got on the field grasp better now.

“We compete with the best teams,” Lee said. “We compete with big-time, Power-5 conference teams and this is how it is. It’s how our schedule is going to be this year and we can’t shy away from it. We have to frame it as an opportunity to grow.”

Be prepared

Lee emphasized that he sees BYU training to face the rigors of this type of week-to-week challenge. “It’s easy to have energy on Day 1 of camp but how will it be on Day 8 when it is 100 degrees outside and you don’t feel that good because you are sore,” Lee said. “Are you still going to be running to the ball? Are you going to be locked in mentally? That’s what we have to do when we play these teams because they are going to run and be physical. We’re going to be tired. We’ve been training for it to be hard.” Laulu-Pututau said that the work the Cougars put in during the spring and summer has given the players the right to believe they can play well, regardless of the situation. “Win or lose, we will know we have put in the time and run the drills and gotten the reps,” the senior tight end said. “We have earned it and the guys have confidence. We are ready.” The BYU coaches have also studied how the emotions can impact the team and they want the players to be as prepared as possible throughout the year. “We have to use it,” Sitake said. “We’ve had a lot of specialists come in and talk about things from pre-game to game-time situations. We’re not trying to focusing on just one game but get the best output and times it by 12.”

Just play

Yes, the Cougars are emphasizing starting off 1-0 by defeating Utah in LaVell Edwards Stadium. That’s how all teams get ready for the first game. Yes, it would be even more rewarding because the Utes have been so successful recently. But BYU players and coaches firmly believe they won’t be defined by that one game, that it will just be one step in the progression of the 2019 season. “We have goals that carry on throughout the season,” Simon said. “Obviously we want to win this first game but we have other goals that go beyond through the season, so I think those are things that keep us going.”

14 Daily Herald BYU Football Preview

ǀ S E P T. 2 8 ǀ T B A ǀ ǀ TBA ǀ ǀ GLASS BOWL ǀ

C R Y S TA L B A L L If BYU is shockingly good: The Cougar defensive front lives in the Toledo backfield, disrupting the potent Rocket offense. If BYU takes a step backwards: BYU’s offense has an off-day and the result is that it can’t compete in a shootout environment. What will actually happen: The matchup of the high-powered Toledo offense against the rugged Cougar defense will be a good one and both sides will have their moments. BYU’s offense will be just good enough to pull out the win.

TOLEDO ROCKETS Head coach: Jason Candle (4th year) 2018: 7-6 (5-3 MAC) Returning starters: 11 (6 off/5 def)

PREDICTIONS

Players to Watch: Jamal Hines (So. DE), Jordan Fisher (Sr. LB), Bryant Koback (So. RB), Mitchell Guadagni (Sr. QB)

JARED LLOYD

DARNELL DICKSON

PHILLIP MORGAN

39-29

41-38

35-28

Outlook: The Rockets are looking to get back to their 2017 form, although there are still issues to be addressed on both sides of the ball. The schedule sets up for them to be battling for a MAC championship.

ǀ O C T. 1 2 ǀ T B A ǀ ǀ TBA ǀ ǀ R AY M O N D J A M E S S TA D I U M ǀ

C R Y S TA L B A L L If BYU is shockingly good: The Cougar offense controls the time of possession, leaving the up-tempo USF offense standing around on the sideline for much of the game. If BYU takes a step backwards: The Bulls use their speed to create big plays on offense and get into the backfield on defense, resulting in a long day for the Cougars. What will actually happen: This is an intriguing game between two teams who want national recognition. USF and BYU will go back and forth with neither gaining a clear-cut advantage until the end of the game.

USF BULLS Head coach: Charlie Strong (3rd year) 2018: 7-6 (3-5 AAC)

PREDICTIONS JARED LLOYD

36-31

Returning starters: 15 (9 off/6 def)

DARNELL DICKSON

35-28

PHILLIP MORGAN

28-21

Players to Watch: Blake Barnett (Sr. QB), Jordan Cronkrite (Sr. RB), Greg Reaves (Sr. DE), Nick Roberts (So. S) Outlook: The Bulls struggled down the stretch in 2018 when they faced their best competition but the hope in Tampa is that the young team learned some key lessons. This is a team that expects to compete for the AAC title.

2019 Season

ǀ O C T. 1 9 ǀ T B A ǀ ǀ ESPN NETWORKS ǀ ǀ L A V E L L E D W A R D S S TA D I U M ǀ

C R Y S TA L B A L L If BYU is shockingly good: BYU stuns the Broncos with some early trick plays to get the lead and then holds off any late challenges. If BYU takes a step backwards: The Cougars can’t move the ball against the ferocious Boise State defense as the Broncos win a lose-scoring game. What will actually happen: It will be another close battle in Provo with points being at a premium. Special teams turns out to be the difference.

B O I S E S TAT E BRONCOS Head coach: Bryan Harsin (6th year) 2018: 10-3 (7-1 MWC) Returning starters: 13 (6 off/7 def)

PREDICTIONS

Players to Watch: Kekoa Nawahine (Sr. S), Riley Whimpey (Jr. LB), Khalil Shakir (So. WR), Andrew Van Buren (So. RB) Outlook: The Broncos lost a number of top contributors but seem to find guys ready to take their place. If Boise State finds consistent success at quarterback, it should be poised for another good year.

JARED LLOYD

DARNELL DICKSON

PHILLIP MORGAN

20-16

34-30

31-28

ǀ N O V. 2 ǀ T B A ǀ ǀ ESPN NETWORKS ǀ ǀ M A V E R I K S TA D I U M ǀ

C R Y S TA L B A L L If BYU is shockingly good: The Cougars regain in-state supremacy with an emphatic victory that is never in doubt. If BYU takes a step backwards: BYU again can’t figure out the Aggies on either side of the ball and drop another in disappointing fashion. What will actually happen: The Cougars should be a lot better in 2019 while Utah State likely won’t be quite as good. BYU will get it done this time although it won’t be easy.

U TA H S TAT E AGGIES Head coach: Gary Andersen (1st year) 2018: 11-2 (7-1 MWC)

PREDICTIONS JARED LLOYD

Returning starters: 9 (2 off/7 def)

DARNELL DICKSON

39-25

16 Daily Herald BYU Football Preview

34-20

PHILLIP MORGAN

38-31

Players to Watch: Jordan Love (Jr. QB), Gerold Bright (Sr. RB), David Woodward (Jr. LB), Tipa Galeai (Sr. LB) Outlook: The Aggies have to reload after putting together last year’s impressive campaign. While there are pieces to work around, returning head coach Gary Andersen still has work to do.

ǀ N O V. 9 ǀ T B A ǀ ǀ ESPN NETWORKS ǀ ǀ L A V E L L E D W A R D S S TA D I U M ǀ

C R Y S TA L B A L L If BYU is shockingly good: The difference in talent and execution is apparent from the beginning and the Cougars simply overwhelm the over-matched Flames. If BYU takes a step backwards: BYU sputters on offense and allows Liberty to hang around, giving the Flames more and more confidence. What will actually happen: This isn’t a terrible Liberty team but the Cougars will be clicking on all cylinders when this game comes up on the docket, allowing the home team to pull away.

LIBERTY FLAMES Head coach: Hugh Freeze (1st year) 2018: 6-6 Returning starters: 15 (8 off/7 def) Players to Watch: Solomon Ajayi (Sr. LB), Steven Calvert (Sr. QB), Antonio Gandy-Golden (Sr. WR), Elijah Benton (Sr. S)

PREDICTIONS JARED LLOYD

DARNELL DICKSON

PHILLIP MORGAN

52-12

44-28

35-10

Outlook: Liberty is experiencing the ups and downs that go with FBS independence and that will likely continue in 2019. This team has a lot more experience, so expect them to put together some decent games against good competition.

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2019 Season

ǀ N O V. 1 6 ǀ 1 P. M . M T ǀ ǀ BYUTV ǀ ǀ L A V E L L E D W A R D S S TA D I U M ǀ

C R Y S TA L B A L L If BYU is shockingly good: Idaho State has some good players but simply can’t won’t be able to stay with the Cougars for 60 minutes as the home team rolls. If BYU takes a step backwards: The Cougars hurt themselves with stupid penalties and inept play, making this an ugly game all around. What will actually happen: The Bengal depth will be a concern this late in the season and BYU won’t have any trouble getting the win.

I D A H O S TAT E BENGALS Head coach: Rob Phenicie (3rd year) 2018: 6-5 (5-3 Big Sky)

PREDICTIONS JARED LLOYD

Returning starters: 18 (11 off/7 def)

DARNELL DICKSON

59-6

55-13

PHILLIP MORGAN

48-3

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18 Daily Herald BYU Football Preview

Players to Watch: Mitch Gueller (Sr. WR), Kody Graves (Sr. LB), Adkin Aguirre (Sr. DB) Outlook: The Bengals return a lot of experienced players from a team that was decent in 2018. They will look to take a step forward and be in the mix for the Big Sky title.

ǀ N O V. 2 3 ǀ T B A ǀ ǀ ESPN ǀ ǀ W A R R E N M C G U I R K A L U M N I S TA D I U M ǀ

C R Y S TA L B A L L If BYU is shockingly good: BYU has no trouble getting the early momentum and rolling past UMass again. If BYU takes a step backwards: The Cougars find themselves trailing late and flashbacks of the 2017 Minuteman upset become reality. What will actually happen: BYU will simply be too good for a UMass team that will still be finding an identity in November, resulting in another Cougar victory.

UMASS MINUTEMEN Head coach: Walt Bell (1st year) 2018: 4-8

Outlook: UMass put up a lot of points last fall but lost a lot of production to graduation. The Minutemen still have big question marks on defense and could be in for a rough ride in the first year for head coach Walt Bell.

PREDICTIONS JARED LLOYD

DARNELL DICKSON

PHILLIP MORGAN

44-15

31-14

28-10

TH E

ILY

HERA

BEST O F

UTAH VALLEY 2019

S’

CHOICE

Players to Watch: Isaiah Rogers (Sr. CB), Jake Byczko (Jr. DE), Bilal Ally (Jr. RB), Kyle Horn (Sr. TE)

Returning starters: 8 (5 off, 3 def)

2019 Season

ǀ N O V. 3 0 ǀ 7 P. M . M T ǀ ǀ CBS SPORTS ǀ ǀ S A N D I E G O C O U N T Y C U S TA D I U M ǀ

C R Y S TA L B A L L If BYU is shockingly good: The Cougars dominate the line of scrimmage and completely shut down the Aztec running game. If BYU takes a step backwards: San Diego State mixes things up enough to confuse the BYU offense and capitalizes with some key big-play turnovers. What will actually happen: This late-season matchup won’t bring back memories of the old WAC shootouts as it will be a defensive struggle. The Cougars will end up again doing just enough to win.

S A N D I E G O S T. AZTECS Head coach: Rocky Long (9th year) 2018: 7-6 (4-4 MWC)

PREDICTIONS JARED LLOYD

DARNELL DICKSON

TH E

ILY

HERA

BEST O F

2018 S’

CHOICE

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20 Daily Herald BYU Football Preview

PHILLIP MORGAN

24-21

2019

38-28

16-10

2018

Returning starters: 12 (7 off/5 def) Players to Watch: Juwan Washington (Sr. RB), Ryan Agnew (Sr. QB), Kyahva Tezino (Sr. LB), Tariq Thompson (Jr. S) Outlook: Injuries derailed a promising season in 2018 for the Aztecs but this is a dangerous team when healthy. Look for SDSU to make another run at a Mountain West Conference championship.

Who knows new BYU offensive line coach Eric Mateos best? BY DARNELL DICKSON

Hoge says: “He has to be a

Daily Herald

truck guy.” (.5)

By all accounts, new BYU offensive line coach Eric Mateos has fit in well. He’s a positive guy and why not? He’s got four offensive linemen starters returning and more depth than the Cougars have had in a while. Part of the process for the new coach is getting to know his fellow coaches and his players. But how well do they know Mateos? We asked him some questions then asked junior offensive JAREN WILKEY, BYU PHOTO lineman Tristan Hoge and runBYU offensive line coach Eric Mateos instructs athletes during practice. ning backs coach A.J. Steward the same ones to find out.

Q: What position other than offensive line would Eric would have liked to play? Eric says: “For sure tight end.” Steward says: “I think he’d like to have played safety.” (0) Hoge says: “I would say tight end.” (1)

Q: What is Eric’s favorite outdoor activity other than football? Eric says: “Floating the river.”

Q: What is Eric’s favorite movie?

Steward says: “Twitter.” (1) Hoge says: “Twitter for sure.”

Q: What is Eric’s favorite NFL team?

Eric says: “I don’t think they’ll know this one, but it’s ‘Shawshank Redemption.’”

(1)

Eric says: “Kansas City Chiefs.”

Steward says: Wow, that’s tough. I would say something like ‘Tommy Boy.’” (0)

Q: What is Eric’s type of food?

Steward says: Yeah, it’s the Kansas City Chiefs.” (1)

Hoge says: “I know it’s the Eric says: “I like all kinds of Chiefs.” (1) foods, I really don’t have a favorite. Maybe Cuban.” Q: What is Eric’s

Q: At a BBQ, is Eric a ribs, chicken, hamburger or hot dog guy?

Steward says: “Chicken tenders.” (0)

favorite kind of music?

Eric says: “I’m a ribs guy.”

Eric says: “They were listening to my playlist and it’s every kind of music out there. I like all kinds of music.”

Steward says: I’d say ribs, because he’s from Kansas City.” (1)

Steward says: “Not sure if he listens to a specific genre. He’s the kind of guy that listens to a lot of different music.” (1)

Scoring

Hoge says: “I remember him sending a tweet that he likes ‘Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure.’ Said, ‘You guys have to watch that!’” (0)

Q: What is Eric’s favorite TV show? Eric says: “I love to watch ‘The Wire.’” Steward says: “Let’s go with ‘Vikings.’” (0) Hoge says: “Don’t think he’s ever told us. Maybe something old school like ‘Magnum P.I.’” (0)

Q: Does Eric use Twitter, Instagram or Facebook more? Eric says: “Twitter.”

Hoge says: “Anything. But he’s staying away from the sugar.” (1)

Q: What is Eric’s go-to favorite story or saying?

Steward says: “That’s a tough question. Fishing, maybe.” (0) Hoge says: “He went horseback riding a while ago and said he liked it.” (0)

Hoge says: “Definitely ribs.” (1)

Steward: 5 out of 11 Hoge: 6.5 out of 11 Hoge says: “He likes a variety of Conclusion music. Everything from country Mateos has only been with the Eric says: “It’s kind of a bad program since February, so the habit, but I’m always saying, ‘Do to Elvis Presley to rock.” (1) familiarity process is still onyou know what I’m saying?’” going. It would stand to reason Q: Is Eric a truck or a that Hoge, who spends hours Steward says: “’Freak.’ He just car guy? and hours with Mateos in the calls players or recruits a ‘freak’ Eric says: “I’m a car guy, but offensive lineman room, would like a ‘freak athlete.’” (0) now that I’m in Utah, I’d like to know his coach a little bit better. Follow Darnell Dickson on TwitHoge says: “’Blue Grit’ is for our be truck guy.” O-line. Our call for the o-line is Steward says: “I would say car ter @darnellwrites or e-mail him at ddickson@heraldextra.com. Blue Grit.”(0) guy.” (1) 2019 Season 21

THE LAST WORD

BY DARNELL DICKSON

Daily Herald

It’s always a big game, but BYU-Utah this year is ... BIG

Where will you be on Aug. 29? Around 50,000 fans will be at LaVell Edwards Stadium – the game is not yet a sellout, if you can believe that. Thousands more will be watching on ESPN. I’m sure you have a neighbor or family member who couldn’t care less about college football, and on that specific Thursday night will be watching Netflix or “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” on NBC. Tell them this: This year’s BYU-Utah football game is the biggest in the history of the rivalry. Before you doubt that premise, realize that this game means so much to both teams. Utah is the favorite to win the Pac 12 this season and reach that elusive Rose Bowl berth or beyond. The Utes have won eight in a row in the series and many are calling this Kyle Whittingham’s best team. BYU is coming off a 7-6 season but returns a boatload of experience. The drive to end the eight-game losing streak to the Team Up North is real. Here’s why this game means so much to the Cougars. BYU has a really difficult stretch to open the season, the only team in the country to begin the year with four straight Power 5 opponents. A win against Utah could propel the Cougars on a nice run to the Top 25. Since the teams parted with the Mountain West Conference – Utah to the Pac 12, BYU to independence – they have both achieved a modicum of success. The Utes won the Pac 12 South last season. BYU did not extend the contract of head coach Kalani Sitake, so he would like to enter the 2020 season with another multi-year deal. There have been some big games in this series with conference titles on the line, or in a bowl game (Las Vegas 2015), but nothing like what we’re going to see at LaVell Edwards Stadium on the 29th. It’s well documented that seven of the eight Utah wins have been one-score games, plenty of them that the Cougars could have won with a play or two at the right time. Last year’s game ripped the heart out of BYU fans. Up 27-7 in the third quarter, the Cougars fell apart and lost 35-27. Even then, BYU had a couple of 22 Daily Herald BYU Football Preview

chances to drive for the tying score. The offensive game plan was nearly perfect. The defense was stout until several key injuries helped changed the momentum. Still, another loss is simply another loss. It’s also unique that the series has turned around so much. During the ‘80s and ‘90s, the Cougars dominated. In the 2000s, the Utes started to get more competitive as many of its players had been spurned by BYU. Now, there are some Cougars – including starting quarterback Zach Wilson – who are at least partly motivated by trying to prove the Utes wrong for not recruiting them. Both teams will have many more games to play after this one. A loss sends the loser on a certain path, the winner on another. BYU has other big games to play against Tennessee, USC, Washington, Boise State and Utah State. Utah has a whole slate of Pac 12 games that, in the long run, are probably more important to the program. But the first one is such a huge tone setter for both teams.

I once got a phone call from a former BYU football player who was on the team back in the 1940s. He told me about a huge brawl up in Salt Lake after a Cougar-Ute contest that spilled out of the stands and continued on the field. A fire truck was sent into the fray to cool the combatants down. That’s not going to be the case for this year’s BYU-Utah game. But it might as well be. This will be the biggest and most important game of the whole series. It’s the 100th meeting between the two schools. BYU once won nine in a row (19791987) and the Utes won nine consecutive from 1929-1937. Welcome to … OK, I’m not going to call it the “Holy War.” That’s too crass. Welcome to the most hotly-contested rivalry in the country. Whatever it means to you, it means more to the players and coaches who will take the field. Follow Darnell Dickson on Twitter @darnellwrites or e-mail him at ddickson@heraldextra. com.

ISAAC HALE, DAILY HERALD

Brigham Young Cougars tight end Matt Bushman (89) and Utah Utes defensive back Corrion Ballard (15) exchange words after a play during a game between Brigham Young University and the University of Utah held Nov. 24, 2018, at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City.

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