Here is Jared Lloyd’s look at the BYU-Kansas matchups, including his prediction for the final score for Saturday’s game at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium in Lawrence, Kansas:

BYU offense vs. Kansas defense

The Cougars epitomized opportunistic offense at Arkansas but can’t rely on getting as many short fields to work with. Kedon Slovis will make some excellent throws but the BYU run game needs to be more consistent as well to control the clock and keep the Jayhawk offense on the sideline.

Edge: BYU

BYU defense vs. Kansas offense

This Jayhawk offense has already shown it can put up big numbers and while the Cougar defense has improved, it won’t be mistake-free. Kansas — which was the best offense in the Big 12 last year — will take advantage and put up some points, although there will be at least one turnover as well.

Edge: Kansas

Coaching

BYU head coach Kalani Sitake and his staff are used to these types of road games against good opponents, and the Cougar preparation has been solid. Kansas head coach Lance Leipold has gotten the Jayhawks back to being relevant and will have his team ready as well.

Edge: Even

Intangibles

Kansas has the advantage of being at home and the pro-Jayhawk crowd will make things tough on the visitors. Both teams are hungry to prove they are elite, so they will play with a chip on their shoulders. Weather could be a factor as potential thunderstorms might impact the game.

Edge: Even

Key Matchup: BYU linebackers vs. Kansas quarterbacks

The Jayhawks have two quarterbacks in Jalon Daniels (595 total yards) and Jason Bean (315) who have both proven they can be effective leading the diverse Kansas offense. It’s an attack that can be dangerous on the ground or through the air and takes advantage of defensive mistakes. The Cougars will need Ben Bywater, Max Tooley, AJ Vongphachanh and the rest of the linebackers to be at their best both in stopping the run and getting back in coverage to slow down the Jayhawks. These are veterans, however, who should be up to the task for BYU.

Edge: Even

Prediction

Both teams are still figuring out just how good they can be and so look for this game to be another back-and-forth slugfest where each side has good moments as well as struggles. The outcome will be determined in the fourth quarter as both the Cougars and the Jayhawks will have chances to go in front. This time the BYU offense will make a critical mistake, allowing Kansas to get the exciting home win.

Kansas 33, BYU 28