One month ago, if someone had told me that BYU would come into Rice-Eccles Stadium November 27th and have a great chance to knock off the Utes, I would have said, "So what's your relation to Bronco Mendenhall?"
Back then, the undefeated Utes were busy worrying about which BCS game they would be playing in, while the Cougars were wondering if they'd ever win another game.
My, how times have changed.
Going into rivalry week, I never thought I'd be saying this, but I really think BYU has a chance. Utah's defense has been exposed the last four weeks by Air Force, TCU, Notre Dame and San Diego State. Their offense was completely asleep as well, until Jordan Wynn woke them up with a Hail Mary just before halftime in San Diego that sparked a magnificent comeback.
Jake Heaps, on the other hand, has grown from that shaky true freshman who had no touch whatsoever on his passes, to a guy who has shown poise, accuracy and leadership on a much improved Cougars team. Bronco Mendenhall has also done wonders with the BYU defense since taking over as defensive coordinator.
Granted, BYU hasn't beaten any team of significance during this 4-game winning streak, but earlier in the season, they were looking bad against bad teams (i.e. Utah State). Over the last three games, the Cougars have outscored their opponents 144-24. That's impressive no matter who you're playing.
I still say when all is said and done, that the Utes will prevail at home and earn a trip to the Las Vegas Bowl. But I just don't think it's going to be the blowout I would have predicted a month ago.
Here's hoping to another great game in this passionate rivalry.
