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The Crystal Ball: How will BYU football’s season play out in 2021?

By Jared Lloyd - | Aug 28, 2021
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BYU linebacker Harvey Langi (21) during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Arizona, Saturday, Sept. 3, 2016, in Phoenix. BYU defeated Arizona 18-16. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)

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Brigham Young University head coach Kalani Sitake and University of Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham embrace one another after the Utes defeated the Cougars on Friday, Aug. 30, 2019, at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo. The game began on Thursday, but due to a lightning delay it ended on Friday. Isaac Hale, Daily Herald

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BYU running back Lopini Katoa (4) scores a touchdown against Boise State during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, in Provo, Utah. (AP Photo/Tyler Tate)

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Idaho State defensive lineman Kainoa Fuiava (94) is greeted after an NCAA college football game against BYU, Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019, at LaVell Edwards Stadium, in Provo, Utah. BYU won 42-10. (Leah Hogsten/The Salt Lake Tribune via AP)

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BYU's Khyiris Tonga tackles USC quarterback Kedon Slovis during a game at LaVell Edwards Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019.

One of the greatest things about the college football season is just how many different ways things can play out.

A big play here, a missed tackle there, an injury here, an emerging star there … so many factors shape and mold each game — which in turn shapes the season.

Everyone has their own ideas and guesses about what is going to happen but it’s almost impossible to be 100% accurate.

But why not make some stabs in the dark anyway?

I decided to peer into my crystal ball — cloudy though the images may be — and predict what will happen in each of the 12 Cougar regular-season games:

ARIZONA

Sept. 5, Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas

8:30 p.m. MT, ESPN

Opponent breakdown

Head coach: Jedd Fisch (1st year)

2020: 0-5 (0-5 Pac-12)

Players to Watch: Donavan Laie (Jr. OL), Stanley Berryhill (Jr. WR), Trevon Mason (Sr. DL), Christian Roland-Wallace (So. DB)

Outlook: The Wildcats struggled during the pandemic-shortened season and that resulted in a lot of changes. While a new coaching staff brings optimism for the future, it often means growing pains in the short term.

Crystal Ball

If BYU is shockingly good: The Cougars show that their dominant performances in 2020 weren’t due to not playing “Power 5” competition, blasting the Wildcats in all phases of the game.

If BYU regresses drastically: The Wildcats confuse and frustrate the Cougars, hanging close and forcing key mistakes late in the game.

What will actually happen: BYU comes into this game with an identity and a chip on its shoulder for being underestimated after the big year last year. Look for the Cougars to simply be too much for a rebuilding Arizona squad and win comfortably.

Jared says: 33-10 BYU

UTAH

Sept. 11, LaVell Edwards Stadium

8:15 p.m. MT, ESPN

Opponent breakdown

Head coach: Kyle Whittingham (17th year)

2020: 3-2 (3-2 Pac-12)

Players to Watch: Devin Lloyd (Jr. LB), Britain Covey (Jr. WR), Nick Ford (Jr. C), Mike Tafua (Jr. DE)

Outlook: The Utes got very few opportunities to prove themselves in 2020, playing just five games. They also had a lot of roster turnover, which means this team has a lot to prove. Kyle Whittingham’s past success, however, has resulted in some early hype.

Crystal Ball

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 regresses drastically: 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 has consistently had the edge mentally in those contests, however, and BYU still won’t be able to change that script.

Jared says: 24-21 OT Utah

ARIZONA STATE

Sept. 18, LaVell Edwards Stadium

8:15 p.m. MT, ESPN

Opponent breakdown

Head coach: Herm Edwards (4th year)

2020: 2-2 (2-2 Pac-12)

Players to Watch: Jayden Daniels (So. QB), Rachaad White (Jr. RB), Tyler Johnson (Jr. DL), Evan Fields (Sr. DB)

Outlook: The Sun Devils had some off-field issues that were distracting (and potentially costly) but on the field, this appears to be one of the better teams ASU has had. It returned almost everyone from last season and has high hopes this year.

Crystal Ball

If BYU is shockingly good: The Sun Devil offensive line struggles to get its footing against an aggressive Cougar front seven, resulting in little production and another Cougar win.

If BYU regresses drastically: The Cougars can’t stop the ASU ground game as the visitors control both field position and time of possession.

What will actually happen: This is an intriguing battle because the Sun Devils have pieces but not much to indicate just how good they will be. Look for both teams to have their moments in a hard-fought battle but the Cougars get the edge at home.

Jared says: 30-27 BYU

SOUTH FLORIDA

Sept. 25, LaVell Edwards Stadium

Time/TV TBA

Opponent breakdown

Head coach: Jeff Scott (2nd year)

2020: 1-8 (0-7 AAC)

Players to Watch: Bryce Miller (Sr. WR), Kelley Joiner (Jr. RB), Antonio Grier (Sr. DB), Dwayne Boyles (Sr. LB)

Outlook: The Bulls had a lot of problems in 2020 but have a host of players returning. Where the cohesion will be is anyone’s guess but expect this USF squad to have plenty of athletes ready to make plays.

Crystal Ball

If BYU is shockingly good: The Cougars avenge their disappointing 2019 defeat in Florida by hammering the Bulls on their trip to Provo.

If BYU regresses drastically: Once again, BYU can’t make key stops and USF makes the Cougars pay, coming up with timely stops and scores.

What will actually happen: Most of the BYU players were there and remember the embarrassment of the loss two years ago. The Bulls have to make the long trip and play at altitude, which means the deck is stacked in favor of the Cougars. BYU will take advantage with a good showing.

Jared says: 43-19 BYU

UTAH STATE

Oct. 1, Maverik Stadium, Logan

7 p.m. MT, CBS Sports Network

Opponent breakdown

Head coach: Blake Anderson (1st year)

2020: 1-5 (1-5 MWC)

Players to Watch: Deven Tompkins (Sr. WR), Demytrick Ali’fua (Sr. OL), Shaq Bond (Sr. DB), Justin Rice (Sr. LB)

Outlook: The Aggies had a lot to improve on after last year’s frustrations, but the hope is the new regime will get things back to being competitive. USU has some good players who returned but a lot needs to happen for the Aggies to be where they want to be.

Crystal Ball

If BYU is shockingly good: The Aggies might still have nightmares after seeing Jaren Hall in 2018 and he gives them reasons to remember as he dominates both on the ground and through the air.

If BYU regresses drastically: Utah State’s fast tempo puts the Cougars on their heels and they have a tough time getting off the field as the Aggies gain a bunch of yards.

What will actually happen: Utah State simply isn’t the team that beat BYU in 2017 and 2018 and that will be clear on the field. The Cougars won’t be able to put the fired-up Aggies away quickly but will pull away in the second half.

Jared says: 45-16 BYU

BOISE STATE

Oct. 9, LaVell Edwards Stadium

Time/TV TBA

Opponent breakdown

Head coach: Andy Avalos (1st year)

2020: 5-2 (4-2 MWC)

Players to Watch: Khalil Shakir (Sr. WR), Hank Bachmeier (Jr. QB), Riley Whimpey (Sr. LB), Shane Irwin (Sr. DL)

Outlook: The Broncos weren’t bad but weren’t perfect last year, so they will be looking to elevate their performance. Having a new coach could be a challenge but BSU has a number of key returners that will make life easier for Andy Avalos.

Crystal Ball

If BYU is shockingly good: The Cougars replicate their dominance from 2020 when facing the top Bronco quarterback, proving that BYU is just the better team now.

If BYU regresses drastically: The Cougars can’t contain wide receiver Khalil Shakir, who makes a number of big plays early and gives the Broncos all the momentum.

What will actually happen: Boise State will win a lot of games and again push BYU but the Broncos are still at least a year away from truly grasping what the staff want them to do. There are a couple of costly mistakes that allow the Cougars to get the win.

Jared says: 25-13 BYU

BAYLOR

Oct. 16, McLane Stadium, Waco, Texas

Time/TV TBA

Opponent breakdown

Head coach: Dave Aranda (2nd year)

2020: 2-7 (2-7 Big 12)

Players to Watch: RJ Sneed (Sr. WR), Tyquan Thornton (Sr. WR), Terrel Bernard (Sr. LB), Jalen Pitre (Sr. DB)

Outlook: The Bears only got two wins in 2020 (defeating Kansas and Kansas State) but were in almost every game. That is reason for Baylor to be optimistic that it can get back on the winning track this fall by just making a few more plays.

Crystal Ball

If BYU is shockingly good: The Cougar defense is up to the challenge of facing former BYU offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes, shutting down the Bear attack and creating offensive opportunities.

If BYU regresses drastically: Baylor simply has too much talent at key positions and the Cougars can’t win the individual battles, resulting in game-long futility.

What will actually happen: The Bears will cause BYU’s defense a lot of problems but the Cougar offense will be able to make some plays. This game will be about playing smart and physicality in the trenches, but BYU won’t be sharp enough in its first long-distance road trip.

Jared says: 34-26 Baylor

WASHINGTON STATE

Oct. 23, Martin Stadium, Pullman, Wash.

Time/TV TBA

Opponent breakdown

Head coach: Nick Rolovich (2nd year)

2020: 1-3 (1-3 Pac-12)

Players to Watch: Abraham Lucas (Sr. OL), Max Borghi (Sr. RB), Jahad Woods (Sr. LB), Daniel Isom (Sr. DB)

Outlook: Washington State has to have the right quarterback but its still a battle to get the right guy in place. This is a squad that is dangerous offensively but still has a lot of questions to answer across the board.

Crystal Ball

If BYU is shockingly good: The BYU defensive flexibility frustrates the WSU playmakers, forcing short gains and three-and-outs. That gives the BYU offense plenty of chances to get rolling.

If BYU regresses drastically: This game turns into a shootout with BYU turning the ball over too many times to be able to have any shot at winning.

What will actually happen: The Cougars will win (sorry, just couldn’t resist). Look for both the Cougars in the red uniforms (WSU) and the blue uniforms to move the ball, which means defensive stops will be at a premium. Victory will come down to which side makes a late play and that often goes to the home team.

Jared says: 39-36 WSU

VIRGINIA

Oct. 30, LaVell Edwards Stadium

Time/TV TBA

Opponent breakdown

Head coach: Bronco Mendenhall (6th year)

2020: 5-5 (4-5 ACC)

Players to Watch: Billy Kemp (Sr. WR), Chris Glazer (Sr. OL), Joey Blunt (Sr. DB), Nick Jackson (Jr. LB)

Outlook: The Cavaliers had problems stopping passing attacks last year but got a big contingent of players returning on both sides of the ball. That seems tailor-made for a Mendenhall-coached squad to excel.

Crystal Ball

If BYU is shockingly good: The Cougars don’t treat their former head coach very well as Jaren Hall (initially a Mendenhall recruit) slices up the Cavalier secondary.

If BYU regresses drastically: Virginia’s offensive line opens up lots of holes for the Cavalier rushing attack and the Cougars get even more susceptible to play action.

What will actually happen: The Cavaliers are a bit of a wildcard in the ACC but the long trip to Provo won’t be easy. BYU will be physical enough to wear down the visitors, although the Virginia defense will force some mistakes. In the end, the Cavaliers won’t have enough to win.

Jared says: 27-17 BYU

IDAHO STATE

Nov. 6, LaVell Edwards Stadium

1 p.m. MT, BYUtv

Opponent breakdown

Head coach: Rob Phenicie (5th year)

2020: 2-4 (spring)

Players to Watch: Tyler Vander Waal (Jr. QB), Malakai Rango (So. RB), Connor Wills (So. LB), Jayden Dawson (Jr. DB)

Outlook: The Bengals played five ranked teams in their spring FCS campaign with five of the six contests being decided by five points or less. This team could be dangerous on the right day, particularly if the opponent doesn’t take it seriously.

Crystal Ball

If BYU is shockingly good: The Cougars cruise to a huge lead early and empty the bench in the second half.

If BYU regresses drastically: Penalty and stupid mistakes allow the Bengals to hang around just close enough to make Cougar fans uncomfortable.

What will actually happen: Idaho State has some good players but its only hope is if BYU’s depth has been decimated in prior games. The Cougars will have some holes but it won’t be enough to give the Bengals a shot as BYU cruises to victory.

Jared says: 51-7 BYU

GEORGIA SOUTHERN

Nov. 20, Paulson Stadium, Statesboro, Georgia

2 p.m. MT, TV TBA

Opponent breakdown

Head coach: Chad Lunsford (5th year)

2020: 8-5 (4-4 Sun Belt)

Players to Watch: Aaron Dowdell (Sr. OL), JD King (Sr. RB), Derrick Canteen (So. DB), Randy Wade (Sr. LB)

Outlook: The Eagles are going to force teams to stop their effective rushing game, which is easier said than done. With the offensive line returning and a solid defense, Georgia Southern expects to take another step forward in the Sun Belt in 2021.

Crystal Ball

If BYU is shockingly good: BYU is simply too physical at the point of attack, keeping the Eagles from meeting their down-and-distance objectives as the offense rolls.

If BYU regresses drastically: Georgia Southern dominates time of possession and puts together some key long drives, following the model of what Coastal Carolina did to beat the Cougars in 2020.

What will actually happen: This is another long trip against a team that could be dangerous, but BYU will up for the challenge. The Cougar run game breaks some big gains, opening up options in the pass game as BYU controls the game.

Jared says: 31-15 BYU

USC

Nov. 27, Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum

Time/TV TBA

Opponent breakdown

Head coach: Clay Helton (7th year)

2020: 5-1 (5-1 Pac-12)

Players to Watch: Kedon Slovis (Jr. QB), Drake London (Jr. WR), Drake Jackson (Jr. DL/LB), Chris Steele (Jr. DB)

Outlook: After being strong in 2020 despite the pandemic, the pressure is on for the Trojans to turn the corner and return to being nationally relevant. USC has plenty of talent to work with but it still has to prove it can turn that into consistent wins in big games.

Crystal Ball

If BYU is shockingly good: The Cougars go toe-to-toe against a Pac-12 powerhouse and shock the Trojans by coming up with all the big plays.

If BYU regresses drastically: BYU can’t find ways to stop a more experienced Kedon Slovis, who exorcises his nightmares from 2019 by having a big game against the Cougars.

What will actually happen: The biggest question for this game is how healthy both programs will be after a full season of tough contests. The intangibles will be big (especially if USC is in the mix to make it to the Pac-12 title game) but the Trojan depth will be the difference maker in a low-scoring battle.

Jared says: 26-17 USC

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