BYU offense vs. Wyoming defense

In the MWC (except for TCU and Utah), BYU rules when it comes to offense. The Cougars should be able to move the ball against Wyoming's defense, which is middle of the pack as far as statistics go. BYU will try and establish Harvey Unga and then hit some big pass plays. Speedy McKay Jacobson is back at wide receiver and should make an impact.

• Advantage: BYU

Wyoming offense vs. BYU defense

The Cowboys have scored a total of 10 points in the past two games against Air Force and Utah. BYU's defense hasn't played remotely as consistent as those two but still should be able to hold its own against Wyoming. BYU's goal is to hold teams under 21 points; the Cowboys only average 18.

• Advantage: Even

Special Teams

BYU is very good on punt coverage, but neither team really has any other distinctions on special teams. The Cougars barely use kicker Mitch Payne and the return game has been so-so.

• Advantage: Even

Intangibles

Wyoming is at home but won't have the cold as a 12th man; forecast calls for high 50s at kickoff. The Cowboys last beat BYU in Laramie in 2003. The Cougars have had a bye week to think about their terrible performance against TCU.

• Advantage: Even

Key Matchup

BYU DEFENSE VS. WYOMING QB AUSTYN CARTA-SAMUELS

Carta-Samuels rejuvenated the Cowboy offense for a few weeks, but production has fallen off. He's the kind of quarterback that could give BYU problems with his feet. But he's bound to make some mistakes and that's where the Cougars could get some separation.

• Advantage: BYU

Final Word

BYU and Bronco Mendenhall tend to win the games they are supposed to win, and this is one of them. Wyoming gave Utah all it could handle last week, but the Utes were having quarterback issues. Max Hall will have a big day for the Cougars.

• Darnell sez: BYU 34, Wyoming 17