Adam's Sports Blog

The Jake Heaps Timeline

2012-01-04T17:25:00.002-07:00

The 2011 football season was one of the most fascinating in recent memory. So fascinated am I, in fact, that I had to write one more blog post about it.

This season was the Rattlesnake Rapids of football seasons. We fans were taken to dizzying heights, devastating lows, and turbulent middles. Our expectations were sky high when the season started, but then by the end we were happy just to scrape out a win over a mediocre Tulsa team in the Armed Forces Bowl.

And in the middle of it all was a baby-faced quarterback from Issaquah, Washington: Jake Heaps. I've been thinking a lot about the course of events that led Jake to transfer, and with your permission I'd like to present them now with just a little tiny bit of commentary.

December 18, 2010: BYU beats UTEP in the New Mexico Bowl, 52-24. Jake Heaps had 264 yards passing, four TDs and 1 INT. He was named the bowl MVP, and definitely ended a rocky 2010 season on a high note. BYU fans like me saw nothing but bright lights for 2011.

January 4, 2011: Bronco Mendenhall names Brandon Doman the new Offensive Coordinator. Doman promises to bring unpredictability and explosiveness back to BYU with his new "pro-style" offense. Jake Heaps, who played in a spread offense since he was a freshman in high school, says he can't wait.

Spring, 2011: Head Coach Bronco Mendenhall admits (finally) that Jake Heaps will be the unquestioned starter in 2011. Heaps, during a very good batch of spring practices, continually refers to the 2011 Cougars as "his team."

Summer, 2011: According to BYU columnist Dick Harmon (and unbeknownst to fans), Jake Heaps misses all but three of the 66 scheduled team practices. Is this where the team started taking Riley's side?

July 13, 2011: BYU Media Day, and this famous quote from Jake Heaps: "There's only championship to play for now and that's the national championship." Expectations continue to soar.

August 6, 2011: BYU opens fall camp. Jake Heaps has an incredible camp in which he completes almost all of his passes without many mistakes. The 2011 Cougars are a mix of youth, experience, raw talent and hard work. USC transfers Uona Kaveinga and Hebron Fangupo are expected to make a big splash on what is assumed will be a stingy defense, and the offense is projected to be among BYU's best, with a returning core of skill players (including the much heralded Heaps and his favorite 2010 target Cody Hoffman). Fans are foaming at the mouth, dreaming of the elusive undefeated season and subsequent BCS bowl.

September 3, 2011: BYU beats Ole Miss 14-13. The offense looked bad. Jake Heaps showed a strange combination of costly hesitation and nervous anxiety. Kyle Van Noy saved the day with an extraordinary defensive touchdown to seal the win. BYU fans brush off the offensive performance with excuses like "BYU always starts slow," "It's a new offense with a new OC," and "Ole Miss needed the win more than BYU."

September 10, 2011: BYU loses to Texas 16-17. Jake Heaps looks great early, but then flatlines in the second half to let Texas come back and win. Brandon Doman shoulders most of the blame. Note: The first half of this game was the highlight of Jake's year.

September 17, 2011: That fateful day. BYU loses to their arch rivals, the Utah Utes (or is it Hawks?), 54-10. Jake finds new and creative ways to turn the ball over, including tossing the ball in our own endzone so the Utes could recover it for a TD on the first play of the game. Jake's follies land him on ESPN's "Not Top Ten," and Cougars everywhere hit an epic low.

September 23, 2011: BYU barely beats what turned out to be a very bad Central Florida team, 24-17. Jake Heaps did very little to help the team win. Rather, it was Cody Hoffman's 93-yard Kickoff return TD that made the difference.

September 30, 2011: Another week, another painful look into the poor play and poorer execution of a once proud quarterback. Jake Heaps is ineffective against an improving but still bad Utah State Aggie squad. Utah State leads for most of the game, and finally Jake Heaps is benched in the third quarter. The crowd goes wild as Riley Nelson enters the game, and they go even wilder when Riley leads his team back from the dead and to the sweet shores of victory. A wild hail mary to McKay Jacobson and a miraculous deflection TD to Marcus Matthews sealed the win for the Cougars, and Jake Heaps' future at BYU started to disintegrate.

November 12, 2011: Heaps, who watched silently on the sidelines for six straight weeks, finally got called into action when the Idaho Vandals knocked Riley Nelson out of the game with a cracked rib and punctured lung. Heaps responds well, throwing for 185 yards and 2 TDs.

November 19, 2011: Heaps gets his first start since the Utah State game, and crushes the Aggies of New Mexico with 238 yards passing and 4 TDs. Despite two solid weeks from the sophomore phenom, Bronco insists that Riley Nelson will start again when he is healthy.

December 3, 2011: Riley Nelson is back. After a speedy recovery, Nelson makes the trip to Hawaii and BYU pounds the Warriors 41-20. Riley Nelson passes for an eye-popping 363 yards and 3 TDs (and not a single interception). Heaps gets some play in mop-up time, and his final pass as a BYU Cougar was a zippy incompletion on a McKay Jacobson out route. Fitting.

Decenber 5, 2011: Jake Heaps announces he will transfer from BYU. Eager for someone to blame, fans point fingers at coaches, players and Heaps himself, but the fact remains: Our golden boy, the QB that was supposed to win us a National Championship, no longer wanted to be a BYU Cougar.

What an incredible year. Clearly getting benched vs. Utah State was the turning point of Jake Heaps' Cougar career. Had Jake stayed in the game, we almost certainly would have lost. Riley showed guts in his comeback win, and he earned a shot to start the next week.

Riley had a lot of success as a starter in 2011, but how much of that success was simply due to bad competition? I could argue, for example, that Jake would have beaten San Jose State, Oregon State and Idaho State just as badly as Riley Nelson did. So was it wise to let Nelson take the credit?

It was a tough position for our coaches, and We'll debate their decisions for years and years, but you can't argue that Jake badly underperformed in his Sophomore season at BYU. He looked uncomfortable and jumpy. He had no touch on his throws, and even though there were glimpses of pure talent, by and large Jake Heaps turned out to be a huge disappointment.

Clearly Jake and Riley could not coexist at BYU. Riley, the tough and gritty no-name who did whatever he could to get on the field and help the team win, and Jake the rocket-armed 5-star recruit who went to all the right camps, said all the right things and built himself into an NFL quarterback. They just didn't get along.

And Jake couldn't take it anymore.

I would have preferred Jake Heaps stay at BYU, redshirt and start his career anew in 2013. Taking his lumps, staying home and redshirting, all in the name of helping his team improve, would have done much to heal the wounds suffered in the locker room as a consequence of having to live with a QB controversy for two straight years.

But for the first time in his life, Jake Heaps was challenged. And instead of fight, he flew the coop. It's sad. And that's why this season will always live on as one of the most fascinating in Cougar history.

I trust BYU

2011-11-23T15:17:00.002-07:00

This could have been a huge year for BYU. Unfortunately, we failed every test we were handed on the field, and it looks like we can't do much better off it.

We didn't just lose to TCU, Utah and Texas this year. We lost out on membership in the Big 12 and the Big East conferences. BYU's Athletic Director Tom Holmoe said we never really had an official invitation to the Big 12, but my gut says we could have been a member if BYU was willing to play ball.

Big East negotiations were a little more open. The Big East made it publicly known that they wanted BYU, and even extended an invitation to join the conference as a football-only member. Negotiations stalled, however, because BYU reportedly would not budge in their insistence that they keep the broadcast rights to their home games.

I like independence. But I think I like the idea of being in a BCS conference even more. I, like a lot of fans, was disappointed twice this year as I saw talks with not one but two BCS conferences break down due, seemingly, to BYU's stubbornness.

But you know what? Through all the drama, all the soundbytes, all the unnamed sources and all the heartbreak, one thing remains: The thing I like the most is BYU.

So my official position regarding all future discussion of conference expansion is this: I TRUST BYU.

Furthermore, I trust our AD, our school's president and the Board of Trustees. I truly believe they have BYU's best interest in mind. Do you? So, therefore, when they decide it's not worth it to sell our souls to jump into a BCS conference, guess what? I'm on board.

Because here's the real thing: Despite what articles I read and what Twitter feeds I follow, I have no idea what's happening in these meetings between BYU and conference officials. And you don't either. The only guys who truly know what's going on are the people in that boardroom, or on that conference call. And they're a lot smarter than me and you. So I refuse to spend my energy lashing out at BYU over negotiations and conditions I know nothing about. It's useless, and it's foolish.

I'm in BYU's corner. Loyal, strong and true.

The 600-pound podcast in the room

2011-11-10T17:24:00.006-07:00

Hello.

So it's the middle of football season, and as you can see I have been a neglectful blogger. It's embarrassing, I know.

But this time I have an excuse! I haven't just been watching football in my living room covered in the dust of a dozen jelly donuts. I've actually been doing things! I've been discussing the games, breaking down film, talking out victories and defeats.

I just haven't been doing it here.

ASB fans, I'm delighted to announce I've started a podcast with two of my good friends, Jeris and Trevor. It's called Death Star D and you can find it at DeathStarD.wordpress.com.

(I know: Not only am I betraying my blog, I'm betraying the whole blogger platform. Please forgive me, Google.)

Every week Jeris, Trevor and I talk out the games, give our takes, make predictions and crack wise. It's our chance to do what we love, namely talk BYU sports, and present the conversation to an audience of... 10s?

Check us out at DeathStarD.wordpress.com, and give us a listen. You can find every episode on our site, as well as iTunes. Just search for Death Star D (Can you believe no one snatched that name before we did?)

Oh by the way, don't for one second think I'm abandoning my blog like an infant in the snow. I still have a great love of the written word, and I'll be back every time something irks me so badly I just need to write it out.

Sad day for BYU, great day for Twitter

2011-10-06T15:51:00.002-06:00

The news hit Provo like a kick to the spine: TCU has been invited to join the Big 12.

Rather than sulk, get angry or overreact, I took the opportunity to sit back and watch the BYU fan meltdown unfold.

You know I'm a Twitter guy, right? Well here's a sampling of the best tweets I saw on this, the day that the Big 12 left BYU behind:

eldermars
EVERYBODY PANIC! Seriously, I'm not making a sarcastic joke- it's time to panic.

LandThieves
This BYU stuff is lmost enough to drive them to drink.... a dr pepper

nicknewman801
If #BYU and Cecil O. Samuelson truly said no to Big 12, I've bought my last ticket in Provo, bought my last shirt. This is heinous.

ecolsen
I just became the mayor of Mini Of Murray Dealership on @foursquare!

[Editor's Note: Gotta love FourSquare...]

gr8justinc
I still believe BYU and ESPN have something up their sleeve. And it may incluude ND somehow.

[Editor's Note: Ah, Notre Dame. The last vestige of hope for BYU fans.]

JustinSchille
FWIW, I still believe we'll end up in the BigXII. And I do not know anything you guys don't.

BYUdeepthrowt
@geoffjBYU sometimes the Guy goes for current hot babe instead of sweet spirit and wholesome reliability. B12 chose hot TCU over us but....its not over. They didn't choose TCU because of anything we did. And, its not over....

[Editor's Note: Another BYU "insider." I love these guys. They make vague, ambiguous statements that are juuuuust hazy enough to make sure their tracks are covered, no matter what actually happens.]

BYUinsider
With #BYU to the Big12 crashing I fear for Saturday, if Bronco makes one wrong move I think fans will storm the field out of pure rage.

[Editor's Note: I can actually see this happening. We BYU fans have been put through the ringer this year. You know all it'll take is one fan to finally pop before an all-out stampede.]

stromanBYU
I am laughing pretty hard at all BYU fans (including myself). I guess the alternative is to put on R.E.M. & lower the blinds. #byu #big12

spaffoo
How many times has BYU been on the cusp of a perfect season 2 piss it away or b on the verge of national recognition 2 misstep @ key moments

Laners14
I trust the BYU admin. They have more knowledge & foresight than any of us. The last thing they want is to slip into irrelevancy. Be patient

[Editor's Note: When all else fails, try faith.]

Jake Heaps: Choose your own adventure

2011-10-03T22:45:00.005-06:00

The more I think about it, I'm convinced Saturday's game against San Jose State is the most important football game of Jake Heaps' career.

I'm not kidding.

When the Cougars and Spartans square off late on Saturday night, the fate of Jake Heaps' future will hang in the balance.

If he starts: He'll have a great game, acquire vast amounts of mojo, win over his teammates and go on to be a BYU legend, a Super Bowl Champion and a serviceable analyst on NFL Countdown.

If he sits on the bench: Jake's college career is over. He'll be Riley's back up until his senior year, where he'll lose the starting job to a fiery Taysom Hill, fresh off his mission. Soon he'll be a supervisor at Ancestry.com.

There literally is no middle ground.

I know it's an unpopular position, but I'm on team Heaps. And believe me, after Friday's game and Nelson's heroics, it's a hard position to take. Nelson earned a shot to start, no question. But if Heaps rides the pine, it could seriously ruin his BYU career.

Follow my logic: SJSU is such an awful team, any QB could be successful. The question is, which one, out of Nelson and Heaps, do we want to have a successful game? It's got to be Heaps.

Riley Nelson is a gamer, no question. He's gutty, confident, and he has the respect of his teammates. But his ceiling is so much lower than the physically gifted, golden-armed Jake Heaps. Nelson is a known commodity. We've watched him play, and we've seen that movie. It doesn't end well.

Jake Heaps is still the quarterback of the future, and he can still salvage this season. But he needs some confidence. He needs a trashy team to take behind the woodshed. He needs San Jose State.

And if, if, if Jake still can't find his way against the Spartans, then it'll finally be time to say goodbye to the best offseason quarterback in BYU history. BYU will officially be Riley Nelson's team.

Saturday is the day. The crossroads of the universe for Jake Heaps. Put the ball in his hands one more time. I know he'll make us proud.

A win doesn't buy much in Provo these days

2011-10-01T21:55:00.001-06:00

Do you know what it's like to be in the depths of of a nightmarish pit, hopeless and alone, only to climb out and find yourself basking in the brilliant light of noonday?

I do. I was in the stands on Friday night when BYU came back in the fourth quarter to beat Utah State 27-24.

After the win, I stood in the south end zone and watched our passionate students rush the field, marveling at how this rivalry has taken a turn for the bizarre. But you know what? An ending like that deserves a special celebration. BYU looked like they came back from the dead.

I walked away from LaVell Edwards Stadium a happy man. In fact, I went to bed and woke up a happy man. It wasn't until I logged on to Cougarboard.com that I started to get depressed. Not about the game, but about the fans.

I love BYU fans. They're fiery, they're intelligent, they're thoughtful and civil. But sometimes I just wanna smack 'em all upside the brain.

Instead of celebrating a thrilling, dramatic victory over our lower-case rival, the messages were almost totally negative. They focused on how bad our coaches are, how bad our players played, how awful the relish was at the hot dog stand, you name it.

It really bummed me out. Granted, I am just as frustrated with our coaches and players as anyone, but I'm not going to let that story take top billing. Whatever your opinion of Riley Nelson or Bronco Mendenhall, the bottom line is we won the game.

Come on Cougs. We're winners. Let's act like it.

Holy cow, it's game day!

2011-09-23T15:15:00.002-06:00

Geesh. These Friday games come quick, don't they? Here it is 2.5 hours until kickoff, and I'm just now getting to my prediction.

I'm sure you all are just wringing your hands with nervous anticipation.

I'll spare you the amateur analysis this week. Clearly I don't know what I'm talking about. The fact is, I have no idea how/if BYU is going to play tonight. I do think this is an important game, though. Deceptively important.

In 2007 we started the season 1-2, just like this year. We beat Arizona, and then lost successive games to UCLA and Tulsa. I was feeling just like I do now: Frustrated, upset, cold, nauseous, clammy, sleepy and forsaken. And a little hungry.

Then, in game four, we drubbed Air Force 31-6 and rattled off 10-straight wins.

This game, tonight, is our Air Force game. It's the fork in the road. We've got the UCF Knights at home in our building, we're bouncing back from a bad loss, and we face a crossroads. Will we mope? Will we quit? Will we lose again?

Or will this be our turning point?

Nothing cures the ills of an ailing fanbase like winning, and we could use some of that sweet medicine tonight. I hope our coaches have our players prepared, and I hope our players haven't lost the will to fight. Because this could still be a pretty nice season if we play our cards right.

My prediction: BYU gets a small measure of its groove back. Cougars win 24-13.

5 potential rivals for BYU

2011-09-20T16:49:00.005-06:00

With all of this conference realignment muck that's being raked around like a fresh pile of horse poop, I've given some thought to some pretty wild scenarios. Scenarios that would put BYU in line with some non-traditional rivalries.

And that's the beauty of being a BYU fan. No matter where we end up when the dust settles, we'll always have someone to hate and someone that hates us. Check out these not-now-but-soon-could-be rivalries:

1. BYU vs. Missouri - The Battle of Haun's Mill
The fine people of Missouri drove out the Mormons in 1838 with Governor Lilburn W. Boggs famous "Extermination Order". Well guess what? We're taking back the holy land! We would have to play this game in a neutral site, though. Preferably Independence.

2. BYU vs. Houston/Washington State - The Cougar Bowl
I think some pervs might be disappointed when they read the program description "Cougar on Cougar action" and it ends up being a football game. But this game would finally prove which is the fiercest Cougar of them all. Courtney Cox would be the special guest referee.

3. BYU vs. Wheaton College - The Shirley Temple Bowl
BYU, as we all know, is the country's most "Stone Cold Sober" school, according to the Princeton Review. But who's No. 2? That'd be Wheaton College in Wheaton, IL. The Wheaton Thunder's been living in our shadow for too long, and they're looking for some satisfaction. And if they win? Break out the virgin Rum and Coke!

4. BYU vs. Cal-Berkeley - The Prop 8 Bowl
It's hard to think of two schools as diametrically opposed as BYU and Cal. We're conservative, they're liberal. We're in the mountains, they're on the coast. We believe in a strict honor code that prevents premarital sex, their campus is, for all intents and purposes, one giant freak fest. Let's not let that rich opportunity go to waste! Let's put those hippies in their places!

5. BYU vs. Eastern Washington - The FCS Championship
Face it: Most realignment scenarios do not put the Cougars in a favorable position. So let's think outside the box here. Let's join the Big Sky conference and just lay waste to everyone who opposes us. We'll be like that big kid in fourth grade who got held back three years to be better than everyone else at sports. Actually... check that. The way we've been playing lately, we might be in over our heads in the FCS.

What do you guys think? Any other teams that should be on the list?

Disappointed

2011-09-20T11:23:00.002-06:00

I don't feel like writing, but I figured I'd better put something up on the blog to knock my ridiculous prediction for the Utah game down from the top post.

I'm not gonna say much about the BYU Utah loss. It was awful. You know it, I know it, and I won't dwell on it any more.

All I want to say is I am disappointed. Disappointed in Heaps, Doman, our running backs and all of our coaches.

Remember when you were a kid and you screwed up royal? Sometimes your parents would scream you stupid, but when it was really serious they'd just look at you and say "Son, I'm disappointed in you."

That's the line that always made me feel like a donkey turd.

I hope it works on the BYU Cougars as well. BYU: I'm disappointed.

A September rivalry

2011-09-17T00:09:00.004-06:00

It's the night before the BYU Utah game, but it sure doesn't feel like it. Usually the night before the big game is like Christmas Eve for me. This year it's more like St. Patrick's Day Eve.

I admit, I miss the season-long buildup to the rivalry game. I feel like one of the country's great rivalries has been damaged by the greed and selfishness of college football realignment. However, that's a subject for another day. It's time to try and get fired up for The Holy War.

I am cautiously optimistic about tomorrow's game. I'm kind of feeling like a frightened animal after last week's pathetic display, but in the back of my mind I can't shake the thought that the Cougs might just turn a corner against those dirty Utes.

The big matchup will be Jake Heaps versus the tall and speedy Utah defensive backfield. Jake shouldn't have a problem finding an open guy, but it may not be the first or even second guy. Settle down, Jake, take a deep breath and go through your progressions. I'm thinking he needs to look at the tight ends especially.

In order for Jake to succeed, the o-line needs to start living up to their billing as one of the top in the country. Give ol' Jake some time, open some holes for our mediocre RBs and start playing like the big boys you are.

On D, we'll be just fine. Seriously. Is it bad that I'm not worried about Utah's offense, even slightly? Actually, yes it is bad. Utah, just like BYU, is primed to explode. They've got athletes everywhere, and a QB who can get them the ball... Occasionally. We should be able to handle the Utes' offense, but let's not take them for granted.

Tomorrow we open the home season at LaVell Edwards Stadium. I can't wait to smell the grass, feel the hard metal bench on my rump and cheer till my voice is hoarse. I think BYU rides a wave of emotion to a convincing win tomorrow, and I'll finally be able to read the sports sectiion again.

BYU: 27
Utah: 14

Top 10 clues you might be a Coug

2011-09-14T11:34:00.000-06:00

Like I said yesterday, things are a little weird right now for college football fans in the state of Utah. Suddenly we find ourselves in the throws of Rivalry week, and we have little time to prepare.

So in case there are any fence-sitters out there who don't know who to cheer for on Saturday, I've prepared a list of 10 clues you can use to determine if you're a BYU fan. Take a good hard look at this list. If you find yourself nodding your head in agreement, then you, my good friend, might just be a Coug.

TOP 10 CLUES YOU MIGHT BE A COUG

1. Your football team wins their championships in February and August.
2. Missing the first and fourth quarters is pretty much the norm.
3. Your date night list: Chili's, Olive Garden or P.F. Chang's (special occasions).
4. You adhere to a strict dietary law: Lunch should not cost more than $5.
5. You firmly believe the backup QB is the best player on the team.
6. You don't mind if we lose a game, as long as we never lose a fireside.
7. You have huge drums of wheat sitting in your basement right now. Incidentally, if we are struck by a devastating natural disaster, what good is that wheat gonna do? Will you eat it by the fistful?
8. When casually talking about the NFL in church you use the phrase, "Yeah, I'll have to tape that game and watch it tomorrow."
9. You immediately distrust anyone with facial hair.
10. You get a funny feeling every time you pass the point of the mountain. You can't quite identify it, but you know it's there...

I'm not gonna lie, this list hits close to home. Except the Chili's part. Can't stand that place.

Care to add a few more clues? Be my guest. BYU fans are unique, that's for sure, but I don't care how many barrels of wheat you have in your basement: Just do us all a favor and cheer till your voice is gone this Saturday. We need a big win over the Utes.

Top 10 clues you might be a Ute

2011-09-13T10:27:00.003-06:00

Rivalry week came a little early this year. A little too early, actually. It's catching me off guard, and I'm finding it hard to get in the proper mindset.

And I'm not the only one. Turns out the early game is affecting some of our half-bred neighbors to the north. See, usually it takes a solid season of success/failure to determine whether or not a Ute is really a Ute. Since we don't know how good or bad either team will really be this year, there are a lot of confused football fans in Park City right now.

But I'm here to help. I've come up with a list of 10 clues, and each will help you determine if you're a Ute. If you identify with any of these statements, then I'm sorry. You, my friend, might be a Ute.

TOP 10 CLUES YOU MIGHT BE A UTE:

1. You are the first to make a comment on any BYU-related article. Even the articles about the engineering students who make playground equipment in Africa.
2. You did not attend the University of Utah. Or any college for that matter.
3. You shop at Whole Foods in Sugarhouse. Ugh. Hippies.
4. You never miss an issue of Salt Lake City Weekly.
5. You have a crudely drawn Pac-12 logo hanging on your cubicle wall.
6. You attend several MMA/Ultimate Fighting competitions every month.
7. You participate in several MMA/Ultimate Fighting competitions every month.
8. You leave anonymous comments on this blog.
9. You have a nasty goatee. Goatees, incidentally, do not look good on anybody. No exceptions.
10. You don't know anything about sports or the teams. You just know you hate BYU.

Yes, this is a broad, sweeping generalization. And yes, some BYU fans shop at Whole Foods. Why, just the other day I bought some steel-cut oats there (although I did not appreciate the U of U flags hanging all over the walls). This is mostly just for fun. Mostly.

If, however, you have discovered you are a Ute, my advice is to embrace it. Own your Ute-ness. Start buying up Pac-12 gear, start stalking Norm Chow, slap that Drum and Feather on your Jeep Wrangler.

Just don't do anything permanent. No tatoos or anything. You want something you can easily remove/destroy when Utah becomes irrelevant again.

Tomorrow: Top 10 clues you might be a Coug

Unimpressed

2011-09-11T12:17:00.002-06:00

In this instance, I hate that I was right.

Yeah, I called a Texas win. Yes, I said it would be close. I was even pretty close to the final score. But I feel like I just kissed my sister. I don't ever want to predict a BYU loss ever again.

But unfortunately, the way we played yesterday I might have to.

I can't remember another game in which we looked so completely different from half to half. In the first two quarters we were dominant on offense and defense. Heaps looked like he was poised, in control, and getting better and better as the game progressed.

On defense, we were impenetrable. We were causing turnovers and stopping the Longhorns dead in their tracks.

So what the hades happened at halftime?!

We came out in the third quarter and inexplicably decided to stop doing everything that was working for us in quarters one and two. Heaps stopped throwing to the receivers, Doman stopped calling pass plays, the defense stopped tackling.

It was completely frustrating. It felt like I was watching a team that thought they had already done enough to win, and was trying whatever they could to milk the clock and end the game.

And that leads me to our QB and offensive coordinator. Warning: If you hate BYU fans who complain about QBs and OCs, skip this paragraph. Based on two straight games, I am supremely disappointed in the Heaps/Doman tandem we were once so excited about. Heaps isn't making the reads, and Doman isn't calling the plays we need to have success on offense. It looked like we were headed in the right direction in the first half of yesterday's game, but we regressed big time in the third quarter. All the talent we have on offense is going to waste. Especially when we call the same freaking pass play to the tailback every single time.

I am really starting to hate that play.

We've got tall, athletic, speedy receivers. Give them the ball! Austin Holt and Richard Wilson were making plays all day. Get them the ball!

One bright spot was Justin Sorenson. You know he was challenged this week to improve, and that he did. He knocked in three big field goals, and he deserves some credit for bouncing back from a forgettable week one.

I think we'll get better. Obviously, we've got some things to figure out. But it's a long season, and hopefully we won't have to live through painful games like yesterday's anymore this year.

I still think we beat Utah next week, but not nearly as big as I originally thought. Now I'm thinking it'll be another close game. Get ready for it.

Will BYU get Hooked by the 'Horns?

2011-09-09T15:11:00.003-06:00

Ugh. What a lame title. I'm sorry everybody.

I hate myself for what I'm about to write. Believe me, I want nothing more than to talk about tomorrow's game at Texas, but I'm warning you right now: You're not going to like what I have to say.

I think the Cougs will suffer a tough loss tomorrow.

Ugh. That was tough to write. Feels like someone is stabbing me in the eyeball with flaming skewers. But if it's any consolation, I think it'll be a close loss. No? No consolation whatsoever? Sorry about that.

Working for us: Texas' inexperience and lack of leadership. The Longhorns started something like 15 freshmen last week vs. Rice. They've got talent, but lack game experience.

Also, when Colt McCoy graduated, Texas hasn't really had a field general who can take control of the troops. They're definitely prime to get rattled.

Working against us: Offensive momentum. Texas didn't beat the heck out of Rice last week, but they had a very strong fourth quarter in which they scored points, racked up yards and built confidence.

BYU had a similarly strong second half, but still come in to Texas Memorial Stadium with the memories of a forgettable offensive performance in Ole Miss.

Now we face a better team with better athletes in a more hostile environment. Let's hope our Cougs worked out the kinks in our offense this week.

BYU Will Win If: Now don't get me wrong, BYU will definitely have a chance in this game. Our defense will make sure of that. And if we can keep the ball for a long time, sustain and FINISH drives, open some running lanes and make room for an open passing game... then we just might pull it out.

The real battle will be in the trenches. If our O-line can give Jake Heaps time and Heaps can relax and get in a rhythm in the pocket, then I like our chances.

If we can play clean football, put pressure on Big Chief Gilbert (Texas' QB... can't remember his first name... Dwayne?) and finish our offensive drives, then yes, we will win.

Key player: Corby Eason. Eason needs to be nails. He needs to lock up his man and keep his head on a swivel. I'm not worried about our safeties, our 'backers or our d-line. I am a little concerned with our corners. Eason in particular. I know he's a good player, but he'll be tested early and often.

Prediction: This will be one of those "What could have been" games (think UCLA 2007). If the ball bounces our way one or two times we might win. But it won't. Texas 21, BYU 17.

The Grove at Ole Miss (Video)

2011-09-06T09:39:00.000-06:00

Thoughts from the deep South

2011-09-04T14:29:00.000-06:00

Right now I'm sitting in the Las Vegas airport on layover from my trip to Oxford, Mississippi, by way of Memphis.

Yesterday I was in the stands of Vaught-Hemingway Stadium where I witnessed a filthy awesome comeback win by the BYU Cougars over the Ole Miss Rebels.

It's been a pretty exhausting weekend.

Ole Miss was an amazing experience, but I'll post about that later. What I want to do now is give my take on the game.

First and foremost, this was a big win for BYU. Our first game as an independent football school, on ESPN, on the road in the vaunted cradle of football, the SEC. Obviously I would have liked a little more oomph, a little more convincing a win, but I'll take this win any day.

Now let's take a closer look, together, at each unit.

Offense: Frustrating. We moved the ball well enough, but dumb mistakes kept us from finishing drives. Penalties, bad snaps, poor decisions... Without those mistakes we're looking at 10-20 more points on the board. Jake's pick six was also a 14 point swing in the wrong direction.

However, Jake still led our only TD drive late in the fourth quarter, and that took guts. He was surprisingly efficient, and even though he looked jumpy and uncomfortable at times, he put up decent numbers. Jake Heaps is my offensive MVP.

Defense: Impressive. They lived up to the hype, big time. They hit hard, they played physical and in the end they, you know, won the game. I especially loved the front seven. Our d-line and linebackers showed me why they were so hyped coming into the season. Obviously KVN made the play of the game, but I also loved the play of Jordan Pendleton, Hebron Fangupo, Daniel Sorenson and Uona Kaveinga.

The secondary looks like a BYU secondary, meaning, they can't hold coverages forever. We still need to apply lots of pressure to force QBs into mistakes.

My defensive MVP is Kyle Van Noy, by the way. All this dude does is make plays.

Special Teams: Disappointing. I don't want to say I knew Justin Sorenson was going to miss that 31-yard field goal in the second half, but I'll say it anyway. I saw it coming from a mile away. For all his leg strength, JS just can't figure out how to be consistent.

Plus the punt coverage unit gave up a huge return that gave the Rebs all kinds of momentum. I was there to witness; it was loud.

Nevertheless, I love Jordan Johnson as a kick returner. He only got to bring one back, but he showed quickness, elusiveness and speed. I'm thinking this guy is going to give us some good stuff this year. He's my MVP.

Great win, go Cougs. If anyone is going to Austin next week, let me know. I think I might follow the team around full time.

Bring on Ole Miss!

2011-09-01T22:28:00.002-06:00

You'll be pleased to know I have officially cleansed myself of conference expansion speculation, and I'm ready to get down and dirty with the upcoming season. Today I'm all about the Ole Miss Rebels.

I am ripe with nervous excitement for this game. First, because I'll actually be there in the stands, and second because this year's crop of Cougars has more potential than perhaps any other team in BYU history. Well... Recent history, anyway. I'm tossing and turning and foaming at the mouth ready to see how Jake Heaps fares as a sophomore, if Ross Apo lives up to the astronomical hype, and how many QBs Jordan Pendleton sends to the ER.

Ole Miss will be a huge test. It's an SEC team with big expectations, just like us. We'll be playing in an unfamiliar territtory in hot, muggy, sticky Mississippi. But BYU's especially talented this year, and we've got the horses to run with the Rebs, despite this mythical "SEC speed" I keep hearing about.

BYU will win if: We can stop the run. That's what it's all about. Ole Miss has a huge offensive line and a playmaking running back... Captain What's His Name. Also, they're breaking in a new QB who isn't very good. If Ole Miss can't run effectively, they'll get bowled over.

Ole Miss will win if: Obviously, they'll win if they can run. I feel like I just said that.

Key player: My key player in this game is Sir Jake Heaps. I was really impressed with Jake at the end of last season, and all reports are that he's made huge strides this offseason. I can't wait to see how he plays against a speedy, physical defense. If Jake is on, and if the line gives him time to throw, we'll be sailing to a comfortable win.

My prediction: I'm sold on this team. I think the pieces are in place for the Cougars to have a special, special season. We've got the best front seven in school history, phenomenal talent on offense, and our opponent has a whole truckload of question marks. I see BYU playing fast, playing physical, wreaking havoc on defense, and putting up points on offense. Ole Miss will struggle on offense, and too many mistakes on D will give the Cougs a comfortable win. I'm calling it 31-10 for the good guys.

BYU and Texas should be BFFs

2011-08-25T13:26:00.002-06:00

We're on the precipice of another College Football Expansion Crisis.

Texas A&M, the author of this year's panic, sent a formal letter to the Big 12 conference asking them to outline "the process to be followed by Texas A&M should it withdraw from the Conference."

Translation? "We're outtie 5000. Please don't sue us."

Another little bit of the letter I find intriguing is this: "There has been a great deal of speculation and comment in the media about Texas A&M leaving the Conference, including discussions of other institutions joining the Conference."

That's it. That's all they said.

They don't refute the claims or speculation. They just state that the claims and speculation are taking place. Well Duh.

Naturally, BYU fans like me believe we are on the short list of potential TAMU replacements. I made my case for joining the Big 12 a few posts ago, but I do want to add one caveat:

BYU should only join the Big 12 if we are, and can remain, connected at the hip with Texas.

Texas and BYU are on great terms. The Longhorns were one of the first teams that agreed to schedule a home-and-home series with the Cougs after we announced independence, and reports are Texas staffers were cozying up to the BYU broadcasting folks to try and glean some insight into starting their own network. If we do get an invitation to join the Big 12, then we may have Texas to thank for it.

BYU needs to keep those good vibes going.

We need to be best buddies with UT. Wherever Texas ends up, we need to be there with 'em. If Texas makes it very clear, in no uncertain terms, that they are committed to the long-term health and wellbeing of the Big 12, then we should join (if we're asked). If not, we shouldn't.

Soccer doesn't suck

2011-08-24T16:26:00.004-06:00

We're a paltry 10 days away from what could be one of the best and most exciting seasons in BYU football history, but I'd like to take a quick time out and make way for...

...women's soccer?!

I've gone through a bit of a metamorphosis over the past 12-18 months, and it all came to a head when I found myself at a BYU women's soccer game last night... and I loved every minute of it.

See, I've always identified myself with the "Real Man's Sports" crowd who hated soccer. This group, founded by Jim Rome, convinced me that soccer is boring, un-American and weird. I was indoctrinated with anti-soccer rhetoric, and openly mocked those who were so passionate about it.

But I have changed my ways. Ever see American History X? Same thing, just without all the Nazis and curb-jobs.

The crack in my armor first appeared just last year when I watched the US Men's Team in the 2010 World Cup. I felt the goosebumps along with every other blue-blooded American when Landon Donovan scored that magical goal against Algeria.

Then, my heart broke right alongside everyone else's earlier this year when the US Women's Team lost a heartbreaker in the championship game against Japan.

And finally, I cheered loud and proud when BYU raked Utah over the coals on the way to a 4-0 trouncing just last night. It was a beautiful win on a beautiful night. The South Field was alive with just a shade under 4,500 fans, and the BYU women's soccer team won a new convert in me.

Now, as a post-script, I should say I'm not all the way there yet. I haven't bought a scarf, nor will I be attending any Real Salt Lake games any time soon. I still think the fake injuries are ridiculous, and I really will only watch soccer if I have a personal vested interest (my country, my Alma Mater, etc.). But at least I'm not a hater anymore, right? Baby steps.

Big 12 is better

2011-08-18T16:14:00.002-06:00

BYU does NOT have an invitation to join the Big 12 conference. We need to remember that. In fact, say it out loud to yourself. Say it twice more. Now say it again, but believe it this time.

Okay. Now that you've said it, we can talk about it. It's the sultry little question has Cougar fans across the nation spinning like a top. It has BYU faithful debating in ice cream parlors and brawling in the streets. It's the golden question in a new era of Super-Conferences:

What if BYU gets an invitation to join the Big 12?

With virtually every major conference in the country taking a good hard look at expansion, the question of BYU to the Big 12 has popped up in papers, blogs and message boards from Florida to Oklahoma, Baylor to Butler. Everyone seems to have an opinion, and virtually all of those opinions are very favorable to extending an invite to the Cougars.

"National fanbase," they say. "First-rate facilities," "A huge network of alumni," "Broadcast facilities," are also common phrases. It seems BYU has made itself quite attractive to the college football landscape.

In recruiting terms, BYU has gone to the camps, taken some unofficial visits, demonstrated well and has bumped itself up from a one-star to a three-star recruit. Not quite a blue-chipper, but good enough that coaches are starting to take note.

And now, as the power conferences scramble to make themselves relevant on the national scene, BYU stands at the precipice of aligning itself once again with a conference, just one year after declaring football independence.

And, as a huge fan and staunch supporter of BYU, independence, and the West Coast Conference (where most of our non-football sports including basketball have landed), I say unequivocally and proudly that...

...we should accept that invitation. Gladly.

Look, independence is beautiful. I think it's safe to say it has worked out a lot better than we ever could have imagined. But we need to stop kidding ourselves. As great as football independence is, BCS conference affiliation is better. Maybe only marginally better, but better.

The Big 12 trumps independence for four reasons:

BCS inclusion. The Big 12 has an automatic tie-in to the BCS and potentially the National Championship game. BYU doesn't have that as an independent.

Bowl Tie-ins. The Big 12 has contracts with the Fiesta Bowl, the Cotton Bowl, the Holiday Bowl, the Alamo Bowl, the Pinstripe Bowl, and the grandpappy of 'em all: The Meineke Car Care Bowl. BYU has... the Armed Forces Bowl

Scheduling. BYU's greatest weakness as an independent is finding quality games to schedule. Big 12 membership would mean really, really great games all season long. No more Idaho State in late November

Non-Football Sports. As much as we've told ourselves we love the WCC, the Big 12 is much better. Across the board

Additionally, BYU would get all the exposure and a whole lot more money if it was a part of the Big 12. This decision should be a slam dunk for the BYU powers that be.

Assuming we ever get an invitation. Which we don't have. Say it again.

Follow me on Twitter

2011-08-09T14:19:00.002-06:00

Hey loyal ASB-ers. And if you're reading this, you really are loyal. You've been with me in the good times (remember two-a-days a couple years ago?), and bad times (the inexplicable absences during Jimmer's final year). You're the best.

I'm going to try and take blogging seriously again, but just in case you want more, you really should follow me on Twitter. I'm a huge fan of Twitter, and I'm jabbering on about BYU almost incessantly. I'm like an unstoppable rebel force.

So visit Twitter.com/aolsen and give me a follow. But also, keep your eye on ASB. I've got some good stuff brewing in my brain-banana.

Answering Greg

2011-08-04T17:01:00.004-06:00

I'm a huge Greg Wrubell fan. I think KSL and BYU were given a great gift when Greg Wrubell stepped on the scene. As the BYU play-by-play man, Greg has proven to be entertaining, insightful, enthushttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifiastic and more prepared than a Mormon Boy Scout.

In his latest blog post, Greg asked some questions about the upcoming season. It was kind of a "Here's what I'll be looking for" kind of blog post with no real answers.

Until now. I'm taking it upon myself to answer Greg's questions. And no, I'm not seeking any money or accolades for knowing the un-knowable. Just come on back and give me some credit when I turn out to be 100% right.*

GW: "Who will emerge as the top tight end?"

AO: Devin Mahina. At least, he'll gobble up all the numbers. Austin Holt will be a great "Behind the scenes" kind of guy, blocking and what-not, but Mahina will prove to be the No. 1 pass-catcher.

GW: "How will the safety situation play out?"

AO: Here's how: Daniel Sorenson wills start at Free, and Travis Uale at Strong. No one will unseat Uale, as much as we'd like it to be Hague. Joe Sampson and DeQuan Everett will be the phantoms standing on the sidelines, and we Cougar fans will be forced to wonder "What if?"

GW: "How will speedster Drew Phillips be used?"

AO: He won't. I was excited about Drew Phillips, but I think this dude's a gonner. An academic casualty who will probably finish his career at another school.

GW: "Will we see the return of the slot receiver position?"

AO: Only if it's Jacobson. If we have to rely on Falslev or DiLuigi, it's not gonna happen.

GW: "How quickly will the first-string front seven come together?"

AO: This is going to be a nasty, flame-broiled, juiced-up front seven, and they will be the strongest combined unit on our team. Every starter talks about the bond they have with the rest of the group, and it'll show early and often.

GW: "Can WR Ross Apo live up to the hype?"

AO: Yes. Emphatically. If you thought Cody Hoffman was the real deal, wait till you see Ross Apo.

GW: "(Who will win) the position battle at center between Terence Brown and Houston Reynolds?"

AO: Pass.

GW: "Which true freshman will make the greatest immediate impact?"

AO: The obvious answer is Ryker Mathews. And it's the right answer. Ryker is the only true freshman to be with the team since January, and he's already cracked the two-deep. Ryker will be a superstar when all is said and done.

GW: "How badly will the injury bug bite?"

AO: A lot of pulled hammies, a lot of twisted ankles, the word "contusion" will pop up fairly regularly, but nothing serious. Unless we play Nevada again. Stupid Nevada.

GW: "How sharp will new Offensive Coordinator Brandon Doman's offense look?"

AO: Exceedingly sharp. I base that on the last half of last season, which I believe was captained principally by Doman. I think Jake Heaps "gets" Doman, and I think we'll pick up where we left off in 2010.

GW: "Which four players will make up the starting secondary on September 3rd?"

AO: Eason, Buckner, Uale and Sorenson. Write it down.

GW: "Is Jordan Pendleton all the way back?"

AO: Yes. Yes he is. And he will rise up and smite his enemies to the ground with vengeance. He'll lead the team in tackles for loss, he'll knock at least one QB out for the year, and he'll bring back the mohawk we all loved so much. JP won't blink or crack a single smile during the season. And next year, he'll be cashing NFL checks.

*Note: The above commentary was written by a fan who has absolutely no inside information whatsoever. He likes to pretend he does, but he doesn't. Don't let his confident tone fool you, he doesn't know what he's talking about.

Do some good. Come to BYU.

2011-07-30T22:11:00.003-06:00

I wish I could put my brain in Jabari Parker's body.

If you're a BYU fan, you probably already know all about Mr. Parker. He's the 6-8 high school junior from Chicago who might just be the No. 1 basketball prospect in 2013. He's an incredible player. He's a lottery NBA pick for sure.

Oh yeah, and he's LDS.

That last little beauty has BYU fans like me all aflutter. Like it or not, the church connection means BYU has to be in the conversation when it comes to Jabari's recruitment.

Realistically though, Jabari-to-BYU has to be considered a long shot. This kid literally has his choice of schools. Duke, Kentucky, Kansas... They all want him. Dave Rose is making a strong play for Parker, but it'll be an uphill battle.

I've never been a No. 1 anything before, so I can't imagine what Jabari's recruitment must be like. He's got a tough choice to make, but if it was me it would be the easiest choice in the world: I'd pick BYU.

Here's the thing, JP is going to the NBA. That much is certain. And he's most likely going after one year. So if your college experience is going to be limited to just one year, I ask you this: does it really matter what college you pick?

Actually, that all depends.

if he goes to Kansas or Kentucky, no. He'll be another flash in the pan. Don't get me wrong, the fans will love him, but in a school with 500 legends it's pretty easy to get lost in the mix.

At BYU, though, he would be the ultimate ambassador for the school and the church. He would spark countless conversations about Mormons, the mission of BYU and faith, and it would extend well beyond his one year in college. He would do all sorts of good for BYU with a long and successful career in the NBA.

In other words, Jabari Parker's future is already taken care of. He'll be just fine. However, he is now in the unique position of being able to do something extremely good for his church, and his church's school.

And if JP is worried about exposure or draft position or whatever, I've got two words for him: Jimmer Fredette. Jimmer showed the world you can play at a mid-major school and still be the most popular player in the universe. Jabari could do that. And if he does indeed come to BYU, he'll even have the advantage of having regular games on ESPN, a luxury Jimmer never had.

Like I said, I'm not Jabari Parker. I'm a 27-year-old BYU fan who has no idea how it feels to have every major college in the country beat down your door. It has to be flattering. But if it WAS me, I'd take a good hard look at the big picture. I'd go to BYU so I could do the most good for myself and my church.

The MWC is full of morons

2011-07-27T22:16:00.003-06:00

I'm just gonna come right out with it: the Mountain West Conference is full of morons, dullards and ignorami. As a BYU fan, I'm deliriously happy we won't have to deal with those hicks anymore. Let me tell you why.

When BYU announced it would be leaving the MWC in favor of Football independence, our conference family almost immediately greeted our decision with anger and bitterness. Commissioner Craig Thompson issued a terse statement in which he failed to acknowledge BYU's move or even the school's name. Fans around the conference responded to the news with a bizarre combination of envy, disgust and relief. Relief that they'd never have to see the BYU Cougars ever again.

Several schools, TCU, Wyoming and SDSU for example, vowed publicly to "punish" BYU by never scheduling them again. They knew scheduling would be the hardest part of our jump, and they were determined to make independence as difficult for us as possible.

And these were supposed to be our friends. Our conference allies.

I can understand the jealousy and the bitterness, but try as I might I can't wrap my head around the sheer idiocy of not putting BYU on your future schedule.

BYU's independence and its partnership with ESPN mean more money and more exposure for the Cougars. What these MWC simpletons don't realize is it provides money and exposure for BYU's opponents too.

Imagine you're the athletic director for an MWC school like, say, Wyoming. If you schedule a home-and-home series with BYU, you can instantly count on more fans in your stadium. You can also charge a premium for tickets, knowing that your fans and the traveling Cougar fans will gladly pay it. Every team does it when the Cougs come to town, after all. Boom. Suddenly you've got bigger crowds who are spending more money in your stadium. Isn't that what every AD wants for their school?

Then, next year, you play the Cougars in Provo. Thanks to BYU's deal with the Worldwide Leader, you'll probably get your game on one of the ESPN family of networks. Suddenly you've got a game on ESPN, and if you're Wyoming, that happens about as often as a Cheesecake Factory customer walking out the door not feeling like he's gonna yack. And even if you're not on ESPN, your game against the Cougs will be on BYUTV, and that's still about a billion times better than the paltry offerings of The mtn.

Money and exposure. That's what BYU gets, and that's what BYU can give.

I should point out not all the MWC schools are so stupid. Boise State, Hawaii and TCU all have BYU on future schedules, and all will benefit greatly for it. I'm telling you, putting BYU on the schedule is a great idea.

Not that I'd expect the brain dead bubbas around the new MWC to recognize it

So glad we're out of that tire fire.

BYU football has a mission: Convert the Mormons

2011-05-18T09:20:00.001-06:00

Independence is sweet, when you think about it. With a partner like ESPN, BYU's football independence means exposure, freedom, money a new national brand, and so much more.

BYU football will now be broadcast nationwide on the ESPN family of networks, and whatever ESPN doesn't air will be picked up by BYUtv and the tens of millions of homes in its footprint. BYU fans outside the state of Utah are no doubt rejoicing.

But that's the big question. How many BYU fans really live outside the state? Certainly there are a few- I'm thinking particularly about the BYU alumni who move out of state. But too often when pundits, experts and fans talk about BYU's national audience they mention the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and its members. It's true that these members, Mormons, belong to the same church that owns BYU, but in many cases that's where the similarities end.

There are a lot of Mormons, the vast majority I would guess, who are completely apathetic toward BYU sports. I'm sure they've all heard about BYU, but how many non-alumni Mormons would consider themselves big BYU fans? My guess would be not many.

BYU needs to change that. Now that we have the freedom to schedule games all year, all over the country, BYU should make a special effort to involve all the members of the church in each area. BYU can make a huge impact on these non-fan Mormons, and they need to reach out to this large, diverse and nation-wide audience.

To do this, BYU can leverage the fireside program, participate in activities with the youth, make a special effort to invite members of the church to games in their areas, etc.

Don't make the mistake of thinking all Mormons will flock to the BYU banner just because they have the church in common.

There's another side to this issue, though, and it's this: non-fan Mormons need to get behind BYU. They need to recognize BYU as "their school." Just as Catholics would support Notre Dame, Mormons need to love them some BYU. If you're one of these "too cool for school" Mormons who hates BYU for some inexplicable reason, it's time to grow up. BYU is your church's school. Get behind the Cougs, because more positive exposure for BYU means more positive exposure for the church. And that's a good thing for everybody.

BYU and Mormons. It's a match made in heaven.

Hangin' with Jimmer

2011-04-13T00:58:00.002-06:00

Have you heard of the Jimmer poster yet? You should have. Dick Harmon wrote all about the thing, and Tom Kirkland was all over it too.

How do I know? I was there.

That's right. A buddy of mine, Bryce Randle of Post Fifth Pictures, was tapped to put together a "behind the scenes" look at the making of the poster, and he asked me if I wanted to tag along.

I dropped what I was doing and drove over.

The experience was pretty cool. As we were setting up equipment, more and more people began to arrive. Harmon, Kirkland, some sports personalities from UVU, and then Jimmer. When Jimmer walked into the room, a hush fell on those gathered. We parted ways as Jimmer passed through our midst. It was awesome, and I am not lying one tiny bit.

Bryce let me hold some stuff and shuffle some equipment around to make it look like I was actually doing something, but mostly I was just a spectator. Bryce just knows I'm a BYU geek, and would love just being in the same room as The Jimmer. He was dead right.

Anyway, you should all go buy Jimmer's poster to commemorate the only player in BYU basketball HISTORY to win all 6 major Player of the Year awards. Hold on, let that sink in a moment: Of all the greats who have donned BYU blue over the years, not one has done what Jimmer has done. What an amazing player. Buy the dang poster, will ya?

By the way, here's the "Making of" video. See if you can spot my ugly mug.

Way to go, students

2011-03-09T21:11:00.003-07:00

Just wanted to write a quick love letter to the BYU students.

I can't tell you how impressed I was with the Cougar student section in the Marriott Center this season. They were loud, proud, and they filled those benches to the rafters all year long.

Don't get me wrong. BYU has always had a great student section. Our students have been just as dedicated as the next school's. In fact, the best experiences I ever had at the Marriott Center were when I was a student, waiting in impossibly long lines to rush toward the most desirable seats.

But I have to admit it: The 2011 class brought it.

It started with the Front Row Fanatics. Not sure how these guys get front row center all year long, but I'm as happy as a clam about it. They're personally invested in the games, and they fire up the people around them.

The fever spread with tent city. Before all the big games this year the students camped out in front of the MC entrance to get the best seats. There's something about this activity that makes me proud to be a fan.

The students also did a great job with their cheers. I was especially impressed with how they were able to start the section-by-section "B-Y-U Cougars" chant. One of my all-time favorites.

Finally, you'd have to be a stone-cold, robotic nazi communist not to love this little diddy:

I saw this flash mob live and I was blown away. I hope it becomes a tradition, but maybe only once a year. Let's keep it special.

To sum up, I just want to thank our students. I remember taking a trip up to Logan last year to see the Cougars play Utah State in the Spectrum, and I came away absolutely taken aback by the USU student section. They get it. I always wished BYU would inspire that kind of passion.

Well, I'm happy to say that I felt the passion this year. I felt like the students were invested, they took ownership of their game role, and they made the Marriott Center the place to be on game night.

Great job students. Thanks for letting me live vicariously through you.

A silver lining

2011-03-04T14:00:00.000-07:00

Brace yourselves, this post is gonna be a little heavy.

Like I mentioned before, I've run the emotional gamut since I heard about Brandon Davies' dismissal from the BYU basketball team. Well, I'm happy to report that today I've reached a peaceful, transcendent state.

I'm not sure how long it will last, so I figured I'd better write about it now.

In case you didn't know, BYU held a big press conference yesterday featuring Tom Holmoe, Dave Rose and spokesperson Carri Jenkins. They decided to do it because the questions and requests for information about the Honor Code were overwhelming--especially from the national media.

It was then that I started thinking: Maybe some good will come out of this awful situation after all.

At a time when BYU had the country's undivided attention, suddenly the Honor Code (and to some extent the standards of the Mormon Church) were brought to center stage. The verdict? BYU is an institution to be respected and, by comparison, a beacon of light in the murky, unethical and sometimes corrupt world of college athletics.

Our coaches and athletes keep talking about exposure, and this is the right kind of exposure for BYU.

Consider these reports from the national media:

And that's just a few of the many, many stories that have come forward in support of BYU.

It's extremely unfortunate that these stories had to come at the expense of a good person, but the good news is Brandon is being taken care of. He's working his way back, he has the support of the school, his team and the fans, and when he comes back he'll be received with open arms.

I feel completely awful for Jimmer and Jackson, two senior guards that deserved the magical season we were about to have, but there is a silver lining to this mess.

What now?

2011-03-04T08:45:00.003-07:00

Let me give you a little insight into what I was feeling when I heard the news about Brandon Davies:

Shock, disbelief, rage, more rage, white-hot rage, sympathy, hope.

Then the New Mexico game started. I think I was back to rage within the first four minutes.

Anyone who saw our No. 3 Cougars get their cakes handed to them by the unranked New Mexico Lobos saw that we have a big problem on our team. With Davies' dismissal we now have absolutely no inside game whatsoever. It became obvious to me on Wednesday night that Brandon Davies was the pace-setter for our big men. He may not play a lot of minutes (averaging just over 24 a game), but he sets a very important tone for the rest of our bigs.

James Anderson did not set that tone. He looked awkward and uncomfortable in the starting role. He can't handle the ball, he has no offense, and he's a turnover just waiting to happen.

Noah Hartsock is definitely a talented player, but he's as soft as a plush ballerina in the post. He can't play with his back to the basket.

So what does that leave us? A lot of rushed, off-balance jump shots. That's what. And that's no good.

Opponents will now follow the New Mexico model when they play the Cougars: Do not give BYU any respect whatsoever in the paint. On offense and defense. Pound it down their throats, because we gots no game down low.

Unfortunately that leaves us in a tough spot now. With little-to-no time to find our identity, BYU is about to enter the post season as weak and vulnerable as a Ute fan at a court hearing. At this point I doubt BYU will make it to the MWC Tournament championship game, and I doubt BYU will make it past the second round of the NCAAs.

It's hard to put it in writing, but that's how I feel deep down in my bones. I hope I'm wrong, though. I hope Dave Rose can figure this team out and we can still make a run.

But he'll have to fill some big shoes to do it.

Catching up

2011-02-11T23:43:00.002-07:00

I'm so lame. I can't remember the last time I was as excited to be a BYU fan, and yet I've failed to express my feelings to the blog.

For that, I apologize.

Please allow me to catch up on some long-gone sports events and issues.

UNLV: Yeah, I'm going back that far. Deal with it. I just want to comment that I was in the Thomas & Mack last year when BYU got blown apart by the Rebels. I remember relishing the thought of being inside the T&M when BYU finally puts it on those dirty Rebels, and lo and behold it finally happened. I wasn't at all disappointed to be watching it on TV. After suffering humiliation and having to deal with the scum of the earth UNLV fans, I went to bed with a big grin on my face knowing we Cougars got the last laugh.

SDSU: I don't know how many of you were able to go to the SDSU game at the Marriott Center last month, but it was without a doubt the best game I've seen in Provo. The previous leader was when Wake Forest came to town a few years ago. BYU played an inspired game, and they were electrified by a crowd that can only be described as epic. After the win, BYU students rushed the court. I have never seen such a thing, and while I initially found it shocking, I quickly made my peace. It was well-deserved.

Jimmermania: Running concurrent with these amazing games is a nation-wide case of heightened Jimmermania. I have nothing new on the subject, I just want to add my voice to the hundreds who are already singing Jimmer's praises. This is a once-in-a-generation player. I highly recommend you get to as many games as possible while he's still wearing Cougar blue.

Not a one-man show: Having said that, I refuse to believe this BYU team is a one-man show. Jimmer gets the pub, because he's the best, but don't discount the value of Jackson Emery, Brandon Davies, Kyle Collinsworth and the rest. Don't do it. We've got some big talent on this team, and BYU will continue to be a power for years to come.

The 2011 Recruiting class: Shifting gears to football, I just want to say I love the 2011 recruiting class. It's a class full of beef. Big d-linemen, big tight ends, offensive linemen like Holsteins. This is the kind of class that will anchor a team for years and years. They'll make our flashier skill players look awesome.

Coaching staff: with the additions of Joe DuPaix and Ben Cahoon, the BYU coaching staff is complete. And anyone who isn't excited for the future of BYU football with this coaching staff should go into electroshock therapy. I'm so juiced I can barely stand it. We've got a roster full of extremely talented kids, and a fired up coaching staff who will get the most out of our players. I am freaking out about Cougar football, and (spoiler alert!) I'm already predicting a perfect 2011 season.

Jerry Sloan: Finally, on a sad note, Jazz nation (okay, Jazz state) said goodbye to an icon last week. Jerry Sloan decided to step down, and I, like so many other Basketball fans, am just so bummed. Jerry Sloan was the Jazz. He gave the team its identity, and now that he's gone I'm afraid his old-school, tough guy attitude will leave with him. He did so much with so little, and im sad to see him go. I predict a very painful season for the Jazz.

That's what's been on my mind. I'm sorry for the huge breaks in between posts. If you really miss me you should probably follow me on Twitter. I'm on that crap all the time, and I can't stop talking about BYU sports. Give me a follow; you won't regret it (although you will have to put up with an occasional Tweet about my extremist right-wing philosophies).

Happy Valentines Day everybody!

Enjoy it

2011-01-07T18:17:00.002-07:00

When the BYU Cougars made a trip across the country to play in Glens Falls, NY, they did it for Jimmer. Actually, they did it for the town itself; the fine citizens of Glens Falls desperately wanted to see their hometown hero play again.

I think I can understand how the people of Glens Falls felt. Jimmer is a special player; it's no wonder they wanted to see him again.

Fortunately we get to see Jimmer, along with his equally special running mate Jackson Emery, twice a week in a big building less than a mile from my house. Both Jimmer and Jackson are some of the best players to don BYU blue. Both are making their way to the top of the record books, and both are going to graduate at the end of this season.

That dark truth is just starting to sink in.

We've got such a great team this year, and if you're not taking the time to savor every bit of it, you're doing yourself a great disservice. We BYU fans are in the middle of something pretty awesome, and we better be enjoying it.

You hear me Cougar fans? ENJOY IT!

Start by going to see BYU play Air Force tomorrow night. I know the Falcons aren't the sexiest team on our schedule, but I personally will take every chance I can get to see Jimmer and Jackson and the rest of this BYU team play.

Because some day they'll be gone, and we may find ourselves desperate to bring them back again.

Don’t tell me what happens!

2010-12-17T15:47:00.000-07:00

If you have my cell phone number, don’t use it on Saturday. Normally I encourage any and every BYU fan to share their excitement or anguish with me, but on Saturday I want to be off the grid.

I won’t be able to watch either the New Mexico Bowl or the BYU basketball game against UCLA tomorrow.

I’m broken up about it, but there’s nothing I can do. My only solution is to stay up extremely late to watch ESPN re-broadcast the football game, and record the basketball game for a later viewing.

It should be a good day for BYU fans, though. I’m guessing we’ll blow UTEP off the map, and I predict a win over UCLA as well.

Incidentally if that does happen, if BYU wins both games, I stand to gain quite a few Slurpees from unsuspecting betting co-workers. I get one if BYU beats UCLA, and another if BYU beats UTEP by more than 20 points.

I think I’ve got this thing in the bag. Sugar rush come Monday morning.

Catching up with BYU Hoops

2010-12-14T15:25:00.002-07:00

I care a great deal about BYU basketball, and, lest you get the wrong opinion about me, I decided it’s high time I let my feelings be known on the subject.

At 10-0, BYU is No. 16/18 in the polls, No. 2 in Sagarin rankings, No. 5 in RPI and No. 7 in Ken Pomeroy ratings. (And No. 1 in my heart.)

If you don’t know what any of those numbers mean, don’t worry about it. They all pretty much say the same thing: BYU is playing really, really well. But if you’ve seen them play, you already know that.

If you were inside the Energy Solutions Arena last Saturday, for example, to witness an 87-65 beat down of the Arizona Wildcats, you saw just how good BYU is and can be. We beat Arizona soundly, without our starting front court (Chris Collinsworth was injured, and Noah Hartsock was knocked out of the game), and with another post player battling foul trouble (Brandon Davies played only 13 minutes).

Not only that, but Jimmer Fredette again torched Arizona with 33 points, 9 boards, 3 assists, 1 steal and a slap in your mother’s face.

I hate to kick a team when they’re down, but how in the world did Arizona let Jimmer get by them again? I mean, it’s not like Fredette was sneaking up on anybody. He’s on everyone’s pre-season All-America list, he’s been conference player of the week 9 times, national player of the week another couple times, we just got done with “Jimmer Week” in which he made a much-publicized trip to his home town, and to top it all off HE SCORED 49 POINTS ON UA LAST YEAR.

Seriously, Arizona: How did you let Jimmer slip through the cracks again?!

The answer, of course, is he (and BYU) is just too good. We’ve got a great team this year. One which is fast, tenacious and plays together better than the Glens Falls Philharmonic.

If I had to identify one key to our success this year, though, it would have to be defense. Believe it or not, BYU has not played to its potential on offense yet. We’re below last year’s averages in free throw percentage, field goal percentage, three-point percentage and more. And yet we’re undefeated playing some great ball.

The reason is our defense.

BYU has one of the best defending front courts in the country with Jimmer, Jackson Emery and Kyle Collinsworth. They’re always picking off passes and filling up lanes. Theirs are probably the busiest (Honor Code-approved) hands on campus.

Charles Abouo consistently harasses people on D., Logan Magnusson is a bulldog, and our bigs are underrated defenders as well. Did you see our zone defense against Arizona? It was a thing of beauty. Totally disruptive.

With our last non-conference test (UCLA) less than a week away, I see BYU as undefeated come conference time. Then we’ll start the MWC season at UNLV on January 8, and the Dirty Rebels will feel the wrath of a new and improved BYU.

The minor, Miner bowl

2010-12-07T11:20:00.003-07:00

So we're headed to Albuqueerque.

No doubt you all already know that BYU is headed to the New Mexico Bowl to play the UTEP Miners in what ESPN is calling the 32nd worst bowl game of the season.

Not really a lot there to get excited about. UTEP is one of the worst bowl-eligible teams in the country, and BYU doesn't look that much better at 6-6. The one thing the NM Bowl has going for it is the fact that it's the first bowl of the season.

Yeah it doesn't look that great, but you know what? I'm still fully invested. I couldn't be more excited to put a beat down on the hapless Miners and use this bowl win as a springboard into what's sure to be a 2011 to remember.

No doubt about it, the new-look Cougars are much better than their record implies. Our defense is freaky, and our offense has finally figured out how to move the ball with effectiveness. We are a much better team than UTEP, and I expect nothing less than a complete blow out. I predict BYU wins by 30, and we'll all be left with our tongues wagging, begging for another game. BYU will go out on a huge high note.

That's why I like this bowl game. It may not be the most compelling matchup, but the win will be huge for our confidence. The extra practices will be invaluable, the game will be a good experience for our young players, and the win will fill the program with positivity heading into independence next year. Plus, in a season like this you take what you can get. Remember: we looked awful earlier this year.

So bring on UTEP, I say. Bring on The Land of Enchantment, bring on Bowl season and bring on the dirt, dust and grime of Albuquerque. We probably won't ever come back, so let's wreck that dump.

Better late than never

2010-12-02T23:06:00.003-07:00

I know, I know. It's been too long and everyone has already moved on. But I do have some thoughts about the rivalry game, and I would be a pretty lousy fan if I didn't make them public.

So let's just get right to it.

First and foremost, let me say this: any Ute fan that gloats about this victory is a moron. The Utes flat out did not deserve that win, end of story, and if you're bragging about it, then you're an ingrate. You should be down on your knees thanking us for letting you win that thing. The better team lost last Saturday, and everybody knows it.

Now, about the gift. I'm not as upset about the blown call as everyone else, even though it was obviously wrong. I'm more upset at Brandon Bradley. This is a senior leader, and one of the big playmakers on our defense. He should know, clearly, that he is not a ball carrier. After he intercepted Jordan Wynn's latest awful pass he should have fallen to the ground to preserve the possession. Running into the pile of angry Utes, looking to get the ball back after a costly mistake, was a big mistake.

About the BYU play calling, I don't know what's going on there. I do know that Jake Heaps looked calm, poised and under control leading the Cougs into field goal range in one of the most pressure-filled drives he'll ever experience, and taking the ball out of his hands in the final three plays is inexplicable. Heaps was a perfect 4/4 in that last drive, and he led us into FG range with plenty of time to spare. He deserved a shot to go the distance. Heaps needs to be freed, and I hope our coaches learn to use this weapon a little better next season.

Assuming the same coaches are still around next season.

Now let's give some credit to the Utes. Scratch that, let's give credit to the Ute, singular. Brandon Burton made a spectacular play to block Mitch Payne's winning field goal. Kudos to him. No one else on that team has any reason to celebrate. In fact, if I were Burton I would be downright offended if I saw guys like Jordan Wynn celebrating this win. Wynn sucks, and he's lucky his own fan base hasn't infected his bedsheets with herpes. I can't wait to see ol' Wynny boy in Provo again.

Finally, when all is said and done, I don't feel too bad about the loss or BYU's season. It's been a fun ride, and although there are no moral victories, I feel good knowing that we have shown we are better than the Utes.

Your 2010 Pick 'em Champion

2010-11-29T16:03:00.004-07:00

After a grueling season of picks, upsets, disappointment and triumph, we are ready to crown a new champion of Adam's Sports Blog Pick 'em.

Congratulations to...

Cade Taylor!

Because of his thrilling come-from-behind victory, Cade will now win a brand new BYU t-shirt courtesy of Adam's Sports Blog. And maybe a lunch at Burgers Supreme. Depends on if my company gets their Christmas bonus situation figured out.

Way to go, Cade. Your courage in the face of adversity has made you a hero in my eyes.

Lucky suckers: Utah pick 'em scores

2010-11-28T15:35:00.003-07:00

I just have to keep my eyes open. As long as I do that I'm fine.

The minute I close my eyes I see that blocked field goal... the one that kept us from beating Utah. The one that gave the Utes an undeserved win.

So I'll be staying awake for a little while.

In the meantime, I must admit: I was excited to see this week's scoreboard. I knew this week would determine the winner, and I couldn't wait to see what happened. Could the defending champion Ross hold off the surging Cade? Who would have the guts to pick the Utes? Could I make a miraculous comeback?

See for yourselves: Here are this week's scores:

Name	Total Score
Andrew T.	29
Matt O.	22
Benjy R.	20
Cade T.	20
Andy O.	10
Craig C.	10
Jeris H.	10
Kenny K.	10
Mike K.	10
Justin L.	8
Russ O.	8
Fabian L.	7
Adam O.	6
Ross M.	6
Seth S.	6
Trevor W.	4
Lesley W.	3
Spencer C.	3
Travis A.	3
Chris W.	0
Eliot B.	0
Evan C.	0
Jeff J.	0
Russ N.	0
Spencer V.	0

Me and the rivalry

2010-11-24T09:00:00.000-07:00

I love the BYU/Utah rivalry. It's the flambe on the Baked Alaska that is the College Football season.

Since I've been a BYU fan my whole life, I've got a lot of memories of the Holy War. Some are good, some not so good. And if you don't mind, I'd like to reminisce for a little bit.

1996: This was the year of my conversion. I'd always been pro-BYU, but in 1996 I became a Cougar fanatic. When BYU played Utah in '96, we were ranked No. 8 in the country. We were led by Steve Sarkisian and Shay Muirbrook. This is my favorite BYU team ever, and we ran over, around and through Utah as I watched from home in my PJs.

1998: An eighth grader, I was dragged to the Provo Towne Centre to do some shopping with my mom. I knew the game was on so I grabbed a seat in the food court and watched with delight when Utah kicker Ryan Kaneshiro doinked the would-be winning field goal off the uprights to seal a 26-24 BYU victory.

2001: My senior year of high school and the night of the "Bargain Ball" dance. My date, Hannah Porter, took me to the BYU/Utah game before the dance, and I suffered in agony until Luke Staley turned on his afterburners for the famous "Gallop down the sideline," one of the most electrifying football plays I've ever seen in my life. I remember vividly Utah marching down the field for one last attempt, but then Jernaro Gilford intercepted a Utah pass and sealed the win. And we danced the night away.

2002: I was in the MTC this time and I found it odd that no one even mentioned the game. Turns out BYU lost.

2003: Just over the hump on my mission, I was living and serving in Brunswick, Maine. My companion was a huge Ute fan, of course, and we were both on pins and needles all day wondering who won. When we got back my companion called a sports score line and his voice rang loud and clear: Utah: 3, BYU: 0.

2004: I had just returned from serving my mission when a good friend of mine, Brett, picked me up to go watch the BYU/Utah game at Legends Grille on BYU campus. I didn't know a lot about BYU or Utah that year, only that Utah was undefeated. It wasn't pretty. BYU got blown out, but I did get my first glimpse of Austin Collie. I've had a crush on him ever since.

2005: Me and my college buddies, the Cougar Crazies, were in the south end zone cheering our guts out. BYU dug themselves a huge hole in the first half, but then tied it up in the second. On their way to a game-winning field goal, BYU just needed one more catch to put them in FG range. On fourth down John Beck fired it to Jonny Harline running across the middle, a catch he usually makes in his sleep. The pass was a little behind Harline and he dropped it. The game goes to Overtime where Utah scores and BYU doesn't. And it all happened right in front of our faces.

2006: A few members of my family and I decided to make the trip up to Rice Eccles for, if you can believe it, my first visit. I was totally in awe. The Utah crowd was pretty awesome. I remember flags waving, fans screaming and an electric atmosphere. It was another close game ending, of course, with a miracle TD throw to Jonny Harline as the clock ran out. In that moment, when Harline caught the winning TD, the world stopped. Everything was completely silent for a split second. Then when he stood up with his arms in the air the world erupted. It was as if a ray of pure joy fell upon me, and I'll never forget how sweet that moment was. After the game we started back to our car and some Ute fans were actually fighting with each other. I laughed at that. Others gave us their best and wished us good luck for the bowl game, which I thought was pretty classy.

2007: Hopeless and defeated after a long Utah drive that ate up most of the clock and put the Utes in the lead, I was barely watching as BYU faced a fourth and 18 situation. But then the ball sailed down field into the arms of a waiting Austin Collie. Immediately the crowd convulsed into a giant dogpile with me at the bottom. It was so sweet. Again, pure joy. I rushed the field and applauded Austin Collie's "Magic Happens" quote.

2008: Again, I made the trip up north to Rice-Eccles Stadium to watch the game in person. Bad idea. This was a different atmosphere than 2006. Utah fans were nasty from the get-go. From the walk up to the stadium (where one Utah fan said "F--- You" and "God hates you" to me repeatedly), to the walk back to our car (in which we were showered with garbage and more verbal abuses), the whole night was miserable. One person in our group was even accosted in the bathroom. I mean come on guys, you don't mess with another man in the bathroom. That's guy code. Anyway, the game was horrible, but the atmosphere was the reason why I'm not going back this year.

2009: My first rivalry game as a non-student. My seats were (and are) up in the North endzone, so it was difficult to rush the field. But you better believe I did anyway. After Max Hall's magnificent TD throw and George's sprint to the goal line? Who wouldn't?

Like I said in an earlier post, I love this rivalry. I hope we see many more amazing games.

My favorite rivalry week joke

2010-11-23T17:00:00.000-07:00

Earlier this year, Kyle Whittingham made a trip to Provo to knock heads with some BYU coaches and see just how BYU has maintained so much success over the years.

He watched practice, talked to players, watched film but couldn't quite figure it out. Finally, he approached Bronco Mendenhall and asked, "Bronco, what's your secret?"

Bronco called Jake Heaps over and said, "Jake, got a little riddle for you. Who is your father's brother's nephew?"

Heaps answered without hesitation "Easy coach, that's me!"

"That's the secret," Mendenhall said, turning to Whittingham. "Smart quarterbacks."

Kyle thought about this the whole way home. The next day when he was watching his own team practice he called Jordan Wynn over.

"Hey Jordan," he said, "Who is your father's brother's nephew?"

Wynn scratched his head. "Uh... let me get back to you, coach."

Wynn ran over to the Ute running back, Eddie Wide. "Eddie, you gotta help me man. I think coach is trying to test me!" and he repeated the question.

"That's easy," Wide said, "It's me!"

Wynn looked pleased. He sprinted over to Coach Whittingham and breathlessly shouted, "Coach! I've got the answer to your riddle!"

"Okay," said Whitt, "Who is your father's brother's nephew?"

"It's Eddie Wide!"

"You idiot!" said Whitt. "It's not Eddie Wide. It's Jake Heaps!"

Alex Smith hates me

2010-11-23T09:03:00.003-07:00

You guys are going to have to help me out. I wasn't around for the rivalry in 2004, but I've always been curious about something.

Did BYU fans make "Alex Smith Hates Me" t-shirts?

You know, after Alex went off on BYU in an ESPN interview. Did BYU fans just go berserk with rage after he said he hates us? And when he called us "arrogant"?

What about when Morgan Scalley, Ute safety, said, referring to BYU "I hate those pricks. I hate 'em with a passion"? Did we flood the radio stations with calls? Did we adequately express our outrage?

I wasn't here, so I don't know.

Did the Deseret News and the Salt Lake Tribune write articles about sportsmanship and the lack of civility in the rivalry after Alex and Morgan went on their hate-filled tirades?

If you guys could let me know, that'd be awesome.

Conflicted

2010-11-22T18:11:00.000-07:00

Every year at about this time I am just amazed at how fast the college football season went by.

It's rivalry week again, which means it's the last game of the season again, which means another year has slipped away like a thief in the night. Again.

This year is a little different, though. Whereas I would normally be frothing at the mouth and ripping on Utah every chance I get during Rivalry Week, this year I find myself a bit reserved. And conflicted.

The rivalry has reached new heights of nastiness, in my opinion. Last year it all came to a head when Max Hall went off on the Utes in his post game interview. But that wouldn't have happened if Ute fans wouldn't have acted like complete low-class losers the year before. There is bad behavior on both sides.

This year players, fans and coaches on both sides are calling for more civility in the rivalry. Bronco Mendhenhall especially, as noted in his weekly press conference. I agree with this feeling. The rivalry is getting too bitter, and I want to distance myself from the front lines of the battle.

The problem I face, though, is how do I maintain my passion for BYU, and the spirit of the rivalry, without associating myself with the extremists on both sides?

Let's get one thing straight: Rivalries are good. They are part of the sport, and they are part of what makes college football so great. BYU and Utah have an incredible rivalry--one of the best in the country. I don't want that rivalry to die, but I don't want to end up in a fist-fight with a drunk Ute fan either.

I'm going to try and figure this one out this year. If you guys have any ideas for me, please let me know. In the meantime, Go Cougs, and Screw U!

It's Rivalry Week!

2010-11-22T14:29:00.003-07:00

Gooooooooooooo Cougars!

Blowbos: New Mexico Pick 'em scores

2010-11-21T15:57:00.002-07:00

I know our amateur predictions don't actually affect the outcome of the game, but I'd like to take a moment right now to recognize four brave souls who picked a BYU shut-out:

Adam O.
Andy O.
Andrew T.
Jeris H.

You guys saw, as I did, that BYU was due for a defensive stand. Unfortunately some horrible officiating took away that shut out, but I'm proud of you nonetheless.

BYU took care of the dirty, diseased Lobos on Saturday to become bowl eligible for the sixth-straight year.

Now there's only one game left, and it could make a huge difference in the Pick 'em scoreboard.

Here are this week's scores:

Lesley W.	38
Fabian L.	38
Craig C.	37
Ross M.	37
Matt O.	36
Cade T.	35
Russ O.	35
Justin L.	33
Seth S.	33
Jeff J.	33
Trevor W.	33
Tyler B.	32
Travis A.	32
Andy O.	31
Kenny K.	29
Evan C.	27
Russ	27
Eliot B.	26
Chris W.	26
Spencer C.	26
Jeris H.	25
Adam O.	24
Mike K.	23
Andrew T.	23

Behold: The New Mexico Lobos

2010-11-19T09:22:00.000-07:00

I first saw these numbers on Greg Wrubell's Cougar Tracks blog, and they bear repeating here.

Just to give you a better idea of who we're playing on Saturday, New Mexico is:

104th in rush offense

98th in pass offense

116th in total offense

115th in scoring offense

120th in rush defense

113th in pass efficiency defense

118th in total defense

119th in scoring defense

102nd in 3rd down conversion percentage

109th in 3rd down conversion percentage defense

103rd in turnover margin

106th in turnovers lost

114th in pass efficiency

117th in sacks

104th in tackles for loss

The best game in the state (and the good guys won!)

2010-11-17T22:07:00.002-07:00

That was a heck of a game, right? I mean... wasn't that just a great game?

I'm talking, of course, about the BYU/Utah State game which the Cougars won, 78-72.

It was such a good game, in fact, that I'm here to write about it just minutes after arriving home. I've got the post-game show on the radio and I'm ready to get right into this thing.

First, I've got to give it up for Utah State. The Aggies bring it every single game, and they are fighters to the very end. They don't give up, they don't get intimidated and they're a team full of scrappy, well-coached players. Not only that, but they are a bad matchup for BYU. Plain and simple. Their post game just rolled over us today.

Utah State is an excellent team, and beating them was huge. It was a really good way to start the season, and I hope Utah State wins every single game from here on out.

Let's talk about some of the game's heroes.

First off, I thought Noah Hartsock was incredible. Especially down the stretch. He played pretty good defense all night against a terrific Aggie low post game, and his contributions at the rim, on the boards and at the free throw line can't be overstated. Once in particular, with less than a minute to play, he chased down an errant shot and batted it back to Jackson Emery preserving a crucial shot clock reset. That won't show up on the stat sheet, but it was one of the biggest plays of the game.

Speaking of Emery, I was really proud of that guy tonight. He had a rough first half, plagued with fouls, but he came out in the second and decided he was going to leave his mark on the game. He hit a quick three, followed by a lay-in, and then a three-point-play in a big stretch to start the second half. He was aggressive and made a big difference for our guys (taking pressure off Jimmer, who was our only real scorer in the first half, for example).

For Utah State, I've got to give credit to Toadstool

Also known as Brian Green.

Who is this smush-faced little guy? Whoever he is, he personally put a plug in every big BYU run with his deadly three point shooting. I can't believe how well he--and all the Aggies--shot from the three point line.

In the "Villains" category, I've got to give that credit to the refs. That officiating was just… plain… AWFUL (I'm sure USU fans feel the same way. Funny how that works, eh?)

Finally, let's hear it for Jimmer. That guy is not human. He got mugged every single time he touched the ball, yet still managed to impose his will and score a game-high 26 points. Jimmer, in the words of a great poet: I'm never gonna give you up.

Great work Cougs! Be safe driving through Sardine Canyon, Ags.

Let the boys play

2010-11-16T09:00:00.000-07:00

Over the past few seasons, and specifically the last two games, we Cougar fans have seen a lot of backups trot onto the field in the fourth quarter.

It's a luxury. We've earned the right to give our scrubs some playing time with a solid three-quarter beatdown.

I love seeing guys like Jason Beck, Brendan Gaskins, Riley Nelson and now James Lark take the field because it (usually) means we're so far ahead we literally don't care who's under center anymore.

What I don't like is how these backup QBs, RBs and WRs are on a choke-chain leash. All they get in garbage time is runs up the middle and a quick knee in the victory formation. The backup QB might get to throw a quick slant if he's lucky.

The thinking here, of course, is we're so far ahead we just want to speed up the game and not "run up the score." It's generally accepted as a classy move, and it seems to be part of an unspoken code of ethics in the coaching fraternity.

I think it's bogus. As a fan, I want to see these players play the game. I want to see them develop and get some meaningful gametime experience. When James Lark puts his hands inside his center's keester, I want him to be able to come up throwing.

It's not Bronco Mendenhall's responsibility to make sure your team doesn't get their feelings hurt. It's also not his job to make sure you get the ball back when you're down 40. The opponent has to stop us, and if they don't... well tough cookies.

Who here doesn't want to see James Lark wing some balls to B.J. Peterson? Who doesn't get excited at the prospect of David Foote breaking a big run late in the game? Who else is just craving an opportunity to see Ezekial Ansah put the opposing QB on his back?

If I were coach I'd be giving both barrels until the clock reaches double zeroes. I'd put in my backups, sure, but my gameplan won't change a bit. I'd still try to score on every single possession, and I'd never take a knee.

I may not win any sportsmanship awards, but I'd have the best dang backup QB in the country.

James Lark, I'm in your corner, buddy.

Top 10 reasons to love last Saturday

2010-11-14T21:41:00.003-07:00

Saturday, November 13, was another great day for true sports fans. BYU killed Colorado State, Utah lost to Notre Dame, the Jazz beat the Charlotte Bobcats at the last second to preserve the east-coast sweep, and I got a tasty Chicken Schnitzel at the Red Rock Brewery in Salt Lake City.

Not too shabby.

There haven't been many days like this, so when they come around you've really got to savor them. Here are the top 10 reasons why Saturday was, in a word, Awesome-sauce:

10. Luke Ashworth's 8-yard TD reception to put BYU up on CSU 35-0
9. Andrew Rich's defense: nine tackles, two forced fumbles and one interception
8. Luke Ashworth's 7-yard TD reception to put BYU up on CSU 14-0
7. Deron Williams' last-second, game-winning floater vs. Charlotte
6. Luke Ashworth's 36-yard TD reception to put BYU up on CSU 28-0
5. Jake Heaps' QB efficiency: 242.64. Good for eighth-best performance in BYU history
4. Utah's meltdown in South Bend. Their second loss in a row.
3. Kyle Van Noy's defensive TD (after Corby Eason forced a CSU fumble)
2. Luke Ashworth's 62-yard TD reception to put BYU up on CSU 7-0
1. BYU is booming, Utah is losing and the Jazz just swept the states of Florida, Georgia and North Carolina.

Saturday sure felt good (again). BYU's win was just a joy to behold. I love watching Heaps play like he's been playing. He looks like he's grown leaps and bounds since the bye week.

Incidentally... I'd love to know what Bronco told his boys during that week off.

You've gotta give it to Luke Ashworth. Everybody's been giving him crap all year for his sucky performance, but he has really stepped it up the past few weeks. He's emerged as Jake Heaps' go-to guy, and he's shown a great knack for catching the ball.

Unbeknownst to most people out there, by the way, is the fact that Ashworth suffered most of the season with a high ankle sprain. It wasn't publicized, but it was there. But he's healthy now and we're all finally seeing how talented this senior from Timpview really can be.

BYU looks formidable right now, folks. We're gathering steam, and I am confident in saying (tongue slightly in-cheek) we are the best five-loss team in the country. Utah State, Nevada and Air Force are lucky they got us in the middle of our "black" period.

Seriously. Gary Anderson should be writing weekly Thank You letters to former D-coordinator Jaime Hill.

Anyway, bring on the Lobos. I'm ready to go bowling.

On a roll: CSU Pick 'em scores

2010-11-14T20:25:00.002-07:00

BYU's offense has certainly turned a corner, it seems. After the two consecutive week's of 49+ points, this season has cemented itself as the hardest season ever for ASB pickers.

My hat's off to you guys for doing your darndest to traverse these rough waters.

This week's big winner is Spencer C., who had the gumption to take a leap of faith on BYU's offense, while staying true to the stout defense.

Good work Spencer.

Here are this week's scores:

Spencer C.	33
Fabian L.	30
Seth S.	30
Evan C.	30
Justin L.	28
Eliot B.	27
Kenny K.	27
Russ N.	26
Travis A.	26
Matt O.	23
Ross M.	23
Jeris H.	23
Cade T.	23
Trevor W.	23
Lesley W.	23
Andy O.	23
Benjy R.	22
Russ O.	22
Mike K.	20
Tyler B.	20
Adam O.	20
Craig C.	20
Andrew T.	20
Spencer V.	20

Next week: BYU plays one of the worst teams in FBS football: The New Mexico Lobos. Send me your scores as soon as they are revealed to you.

I remember Steve Cleveland

2010-11-12T10:42:00.002-07:00

Steve Cleveland, the former head coach of the BYU men’s basketball team, was in many ways the savior of a program in shambles.

When Cleveland took over head coaching duties in 1997, he inherited a BYU team that just put the finishing touches on a 1-25 season. Yes, one win (against Utah State. I wonder how the Aggies felt about that one.). The coaching position was in total turmoil, as Roger Reid gave way to interim coach Tony Ingle, and nothing was ever totally settled.

I remember that 1-25 season well. It was totally embarrassing. I was just a Junior High kid at the time, but I remember I didn’t even want to admit I was a BYU fan (forgive me—I was much younger and weaker then). When Steve Cleveland came aboard we Cougar fans were looking for some answers.

In his first season, Cleveland upped the win count by 900% (9-21). The next season the win count jumped up to 12, then 22, then 24. Each season got a little better than the last, and soon we were winning conference championships and making postseason appearances. He rebuilt the program in every sense of the word.

Under Cleveland played some of my favorite BYU Hoops stars: Mikeli Wesley, Eric Nielsen, Matt Montague, Mark Bigelow and of course Travis Hansen. He even brought in guys you might remember a little better: Mike Hall, Keena Young, Trent Plaisted and even Jackson Emery.

I never got to see the great Rafael Araujo because I was on my mission at the time. I wish I could have seen those 2003-2004 teams, though. It sounded like they were a lot of fun to watch.

I also remember guys like Terrell Lyday and Ron Selleaze who played under Cleveland. These were athletes the kind BYU rarely ever gets. They were fun to watch (during the brief period they actually played). Lyday was a JC transfer who only played two years at BYU, and Selleaze had one good season before he… left the team.

One of the best and most exciting games I can ever remember watching in the Marriot Center came during Cleveland’s tenure. It was in 2002 when Utah came to visit. BYU was down 21 in the second half to the Utes, and we went on a 24-5 tear before Eric Nielsen hit the eventual game-winner with 20 seconds left to play. I can’t remember the Marriott Center being any louder and crazier than it was that day.

Cleveland’s teams were always fun to watch. They featured athleticism on the wings and a big powerful force in the middle. They were a little less consistent than what we’re used to now, but no one can overestimate the good influence Steve Cleveland had on our program.

His decision to leave BYU after the 2004-2005 season, then, came as a shock to BYU fans. Even though the 2004-2005 season was less than impressive, Cleveland was secure in his situation at BYU. He wanted to coach Fresno State, however, and decided to bid farewell to Provo.

Tom Holmoe then hired a plucky assistant named Dave Rose, and the rest is history.

But I remember Steve, and he did a great job with a BYU program that had hit rock bottom. He deserves a warm welcome when he returns to the Marriot Center tonight.

Bronco Mendenhall: A great coach who made a big mistake

2010-11-10T14:15:00.000-07:00

The 2010 football season is turning out to be one of the most interesting seasons I can ever remember.

BYU has seen it all this season: A top 25 ranking, a horrible downturn, the ultimate rock bottom, and then a turnaround that might just send us to a bowl game for Christmas.

It all, in my opinion, hinged around the firing of Jaime Hill.

I liked Hill when he was brought aboard the good ship BYU. I thought he did a great job with our defensive backs in 2006. In 2007 Hill was named Defensive Coordinator, but Bronco retained playcalling duties. In 2008 Bronco let Hill call plays and then earlier this year Hill was fired.

Since the firing, BYU's defense has totally changed its identity. They stiffened up, particularly against the run, and started playing with fire and enthusiasm. The predictable BYU defense that lost us four straight games was gone, and now BYU's defense is the unquestioned strength of the team.

(Incidentally, I would love to press the restart button on this season. With Bronco at the helm, and not Hill, I think we beat Air Force, Utah State and Nevada.)

I love the job Bronco has done with the defense. His hands on approach, and his desire to "recapture the hearts and minds" of his players, has paid huge dividends. Clearly, he is a good coach.

Or is he?

This is the question I'm struggling with right now. It's obvious that Coach Mendenhall has a big impact on his team. In just one week he orchestrated a turnaround that will likely send us to a bowl game. But if Mendenhall is such a good coach, how come he didn't see the downward trend before it was too late? How did he let Jaime Hill ruin the defense in the first place?

I have a buddy, Fabian, who complained publicly about the fact that Mendenhall never spent time in the defensive meetings, and spoke openly about it. He bemoaned how Bronco never really managed his coaches, preferring instead to allow them the freedom to do their thang. He called it a bad strategy.

It turns out Fabian was right all along. Bronco should have had his finger closer to the pulse of BYU football. Mendenhall's goal is to create a solid program from which he could walk away without any missteps. This year proves we haven't quite arrived there just yet. We still need Bronco's careful guidance.

So yes, Bronco is a great coach. We all know that, and we've seen it first-hand this year. But he made a big mistake. He lost touch with his team, and it nearly cost us a season.

One great day

2010-11-09T14:49:00.003-07:00

Remember how awesome last Saturday was?

I'm thinking last Saturday at around 2:00, specifically. At that time BYU was dropping bombs on UNLV, and then the big board flashed the score from the TCU/Utah game.

Plenty of reasons for BYU fans to be happy.

Let's be clear, though: Saturday was awesome first and foremost because BYU won. We finally put together a complete game, and our young players unlocked the magic and figured out how to play football. Jake Heaps looked like the QB of the future, and our receivers were actually catching balls and making plays.

In case you forgot, BYU scored 55 big ones. We didn't even score 55 in 2006 when UNLV came to town. We fared better against UNLV than Utah, TCU and Wisconsin. I'm not saying we compare with those teams, just that we finally put some big time points on the board and it feels freakin' good.

Jake Heaps was brilliant. He looked poised, under control and calm in the pocket. He made some throws that still have me giddy, and he looked like he was having a lot of fun out there. This is a lad with potential, and we got a glimpse of what he can one day become.

It's too bad the defense couldn't hold the shut-out (UNLV scored with 40 seconds left in the game), but you've gotta love the impact Bronco is having on this unit. What a turnaround!

Now let's have a frank and open discussion about the Utah game. The second reason we were so happy on Saturday.

As you know, I picked Utah to win. I picked it not because I wanted it, but because I expected the Utes to come out fired up and prepared for the Horned Frog onslaught.

And to their credit, the Utes were actually in the game... until kickoff. The rest is history, and I've never been happier to be wrong.

I don't want to mock Utah fans (even though I could). What I do want to do is throw this game in the faces of every media member in Utah that labeled this "The biggest game in the history of Utah athletics, and perhaps the human race."

My personal favorite was this story in the Salt Lake Tribune about Utah playing in the Rose Bowl BEFORE they are actually members of the Pac-12. Oh brother.

The No. 5 Utes were sitting on a pedestal which could be seen from space, and they were just ripe for a huge fall. Fall they did. Welcome back to reality guys.

I am happy Utah lost. Newfound, church leadership-inspired brotherhood aside, Utah is BYU's rival. And the fact that they blew this huge game makes me want to write poetry:

GameDay
a haiku

GameDay, blackout Utes
Biggest game in history
Cheers ring from Provo

So now, in the aftermath, I feel great about both BYU and Utah. BYU sees light at the end of the tunnel, Utah is just entering theirs.

Gaining ground: UNLV Pick 'em scores

2010-11-08T11:25:00.003-07:00

Saturday was such a great day. And let's get one thing clear: It was great first and foremost because BYU finally played a complete game and blew UNLV out of the water.

Anything that happened in Salt Lake City was just icing on the cake.

As far as this week's scores go, BYU caught every one of us off guard. Even my brother Andy, who picked BYU to score 42, underestimated the potency of BYU's offense on Saturday. I mean really, 55 points? Who could have seen that coming?

Good week though, pickers. Let's use all the positive energy in the universe to keep the ball rolling as we visit Ft. Collins next week.

Here are this week's scores:

Adam O.	27
Chris W.	27
Spencer C.	27
Fabian L.	26
Justin L.	25
Jeff J.	24
Lesley W.	24
Matt O.	24
Mike K.	24
Ross M.	24
Seth S.	24
Travis A.	23
Trevor W.	23
Evan C.	21
Andrew T.	20
Andy O.	20
Benjy R.	20
Cade T.	20
Craig C.	20
Eliot B.	20
Jeris H.	20
Kenny K.	20
Russ N.	20
Spencer V.	20
Tyler B.	20

The breakout game

2010-11-04T09:00:00.000-06:00

We've been waiting for it all season, but will this finally be the week BYU breaks out of its season-long offensive slump?

I've asked the experts, and they all agree: Yes. With gusto.

BYU scores more than 30 this week. Mark it down, slap it on the table and call it an ASB guarantee. Granted, given the history of BYU a 30 point game isn't exactly "breakout," but all things considered it will be a positive sign in the midst of this confusing season.

Our explosive point output will be a function of three phenomena: The bye week, BYU's growing confidence, and the hapless, almost comical efforts of the UNLV Rebels.

First, the bye. Having last week off will prove to be huge for the Cougs. The biggest thing BYU needs right now is reps, and an extra week of practice is just what the doctor ordered. Playmakers are healthier, plays are mastered and the team is hungry.

Second, BYU's confidence is growing. I saw a funny thing when we played Wyoming a couple weeks ago, namely BYU kids making an effort. Our receivers were going after balls and I saw a little fire. I think BYU's confidence is growing and it'll produce dividends on Saturday.

Third, and finally, UNLV is just... awful. They are ranked No. 118 out of 120 in rushing defense. They are No. 99 in total defense. They'll also be playing in Provo where studies have shown they become disoriented by the tall mountains. BYU will run over them, and use the play-action to make some big plays over the top.

BYU is about to collide with a big confidence builder on Saturday. Get ready to take one more important step toward the New Mexico Bowl.

The Utah Utes: A charmed team

2010-11-03T14:01:00.004-06:00

I'm trying to be temperate in my comments about the Utes these days, so if you're looking for a Utah hate-fest you'll have to look elsewhere.

...or come back here in a couple weeks.

Utah is good this year. Even bordering on great. When it comes to talent, they are locked and loaded yet again. Troy Calhoun, the even-keeled coach of the Air Force Falcons, called this year's Utes the best Utah team ever. It's no wonder they're undefeated and playing like a team which has truly found their sweet spot.

But I'm convinced it's more than just raw talent and good coaching. There's something about these Utes that defies convention. The ball seems to bounce their way (both literally and figuratively) every single time.

That's why I'm convinced they are a charmed team. A team of destiny sent to punish arrogant and prideful BYU fans.

I don't know if they sold their souls to the devil, or if they were just exposed to extra potent gamma rays, but Utah is practically invincible. That's why I'm picking them to upset the TCU Horned Frogs this week. Don't get me wrong, both teams match up well, but Utah is playing at home... and they have super powers.

Here's how the game will play out: It will be a back and forth battle where defense rules. TCU will get some shots in the red zone, but won't be able to convert. Utah will score on one or two long plays, but will ultimately be down four with two minutes left in the game.

That's when lightning will strike.

Jordan Wynn will bark out plays through that thin, blotchy face of his, and he'll work the two minute offense to perfection. They'll slice through TCU like a Domino's Pizza professional. A last-minute TD will win the game, and Utah will celebrate all night long in their hideously ugly black camo unis.

Utah will definitely win, of that I am certain, simply because they cannot lose. They are protected by the football gods. Kyle Whittingham is a fatter, louder King Midas.

As I see it there is only one team in the country that can challenge them: The Boise State Broncos.

I would love, LOVE, to see the Utes play Boise State, the one other charmed team in football. I think if the Utes and Broncos were to play, say, a BCS bowl, the universe would probably explode. Who would lose in that scenario? I have absolutely no idea, and I defy you to predict a winner.

Way to go, Utes. I don't know what backdoor deals you made to get to this point, but I gotta admit: I am jealous of all your success.

The creepy guy in the stands at the Cougar Tipoff

2010-10-27T21:54:00.002-06:00

Yep, that was me. I was all by myself tonight at the Cougar Tipoff.

But hanging out with my fellow loners, mostly just the weird old guys, wasn't going to stop me from getting a preview of what could turn out to be the best BYU basketball team ever.

I had a great time tonight watching our guys. Everyone in attendance, my fellow BYU superfans, were charged and excited to see our boys in blue (and white). And the team delivered a fun night, and a little insight.

Now I'm no expert, but I did see a few things tonight I want to share. I decided to group the players into different categories to organize my thoughts about what I saw tonight.

Here's how it went down:

Unstoppable Force

Jimmer Fredette. Good news everyone: Jimmer is back, and he's still got it. His long range game was on, his twisting/turning/conniving ways were working at the rim, and even his acne has cleared up a ton. Can't wait to ride the Jimmer Wagon this year.

Most Impressive

Nick Martineau. Way better than I remember. He'll be a good backup PG.
James Anderson. Smooth in the post. Cautiously optimistic about Mr. Anderson.
Kyle Collinsworth. Creates his own shot and makes the most of possessions.
Logan Magnusson. Big defense. Smothered his guy all night.

Solid

Charles Abouo. Athletic, quick first step, awesome on defense.
Brandon Davies. Flirted with the MIA list, but had a really nice second half.
Stephen Rogers. Knocked down his first threeball, solid on boards and D.

Missing In Action

Jackson Emery. Struggled to find any rhythm.
Anson Winder. Didn't really make an impact. May be a RS year.
Chris Collinsworth. He looks good, still a little mission-rusty.
Brock Zylstra. Didn't do anything... but no big deal.
Noah Hartsock. Literally MIA. Didn't play due to injury.

Nick Martineau was the surprise of the game for me. He looked really comfortable running the point, and he should back up Jimmer nicely.

I also really liked the play of Logan Magnusson. He was downright gritty on defense. He reminded me of a young Matt Harpring. If he can come in and knock a few guys around Harpring-style this year, I'll be pleased.

Good look at the Cougs tonight. Can't wait till we face Quebec City's pride and joy, LaVal University, in an epic grudge match this Friday night.

Finding the fun in the 2010 season

2010-10-26T21:09:00.006-06:00

I'm trying to get back in to this blogging thing.

We're approaching the end of the season here, and I'd like to get something off my chest before it's too late: I love BYU.

I'm a die-hard fan, even when things are looking grim. Like, for example, barely hanging on to beat one of the worst Wyoming teams that has ever existed in the history of humans.

BYU has been a lot of fun to follow the past few years because we've been blowing pretty much everyone away. There was a lot of talent on the team, and we were playing at a high level.

This year is also fun to follow, but a different kind of fun. Not so much Trafalga fun, but more like the Museum of Art fun. You've really got to look for the fun to find it.

For example: I'm having a lot of fun watching the young guys. We're a young team, and we get the unique opportunity right now to watch guys that will be carrying our team for years.

Two players who I'm really excited about are Joshua "Juice" Quezada, and Kyle Van Noy. Both are freshmen, and both have shown exponential improvement over the course of the season.

Juice wasn't getting anything in the early throws of the 2010 season, but now he is a featured back in BYU's new rush-heavy offense.

KVN wasn't seeing the field at all earlier this year, and now he's knocking down QBs, breaking up passes and making headlines.

I like the play of our young guys, and it gives me confidence for the future. We're rebuilding now, but when this baby gets rebuilt, we're going to put the hurt on a whole lot of teams.

This season is fun, guys. Just look a little closer.

Busy being a champion

2010-10-26T20:57:00.002-06:00

As a popular sports personality, I like to keep in touch with the fans. I want to listen to you, because you make this thing go. I hear your struggles, I hear your triumphs.

I hear what you're saying right now, and right now you're pissed.

You're upset I'm not blogging more often.

Heard, understood and acknowledged.

I don't want to offer up a lot of excuses, but I will say this: I've had a lot of irons in the fire over the past few weeks. One of those irons was a little something called City Softball.

But I'm happy to report that distraction will no longer be an issue. Why?

Because we won the friggin' championship!

It gives me great honor to announce that me and my team of ragged misfits rolled through the Orem City softball season undefeated, and then claimed the tournament championship with gusto. It was a thrilling moment in my life, and I now know what it feels like to be a champion. I know what it means to walk in the shoes of other great champions, like Joe Montana, Vlade Divac and The Undertaker.

It was a long struggle, but we finally did it.

Thanks in advance for your congratulations.

More drama: Wyoming Pick 'em scores

2010-10-26T20:48:00.002-06:00

BYU has this weird way of looking like a top-25 team in the first quarter, and then Weber State for the rest of the game.

Last Saturday we jumped out to a quick 16 point lead over the Wyoming Cow-pokes, only to hang on for our dear lives to notch a 25-20 win. Our defense had to come up with a big fourth quarter, fourth down play, and yet again the offense left us all wanting a little bit more.

Nah, a lot more.

But the good news is this week was very good news for most of you. Pretty much everyone cashed in on the Cougar win. Only one person picked BYU to lose, and she knows who she is.

Craig C. was one point away from a perfect score. Maybe he'll give last year's champ, Ross M., a run for his money as we approach the home stretch. Pick well over the next few weeks, players. Use this bye week to make the necessary changes.

Here are this week's scores:

Craig C.	39
Trevor W.	36
Cade T.	36
Mike K.	35
Fabian L.	34
Ross M.	33
Russ N.	33
Evan C.	32
Benjy R.	32
Kenny K.	32
Travis A.	31
Chris W.	31
Andrew T.	31
Logan S.	30
Jeff J.	29
Tyler B.	29
Justin L.	29
Seth S.	27
Jeris H.	27
Adam O.	27
Russ O.	23
Matt O.	21
Eliot B.	20
Spencer C.	20
Lesley W.	3

One more loss: TCU Pick 'em scores

2010-10-16T22:49:00.002-06:00

This loss was tough. Not because I wasn't expecting it, but because it killed some much-needed momentum that was built after last week's win.

Nevertheless, we looked better than the score indicated, I thought.

But I'll talk about that later.

Today I want to recognize the brave individuals who picked BYU to win today. They may not have put any points on the board this week, but they're all aces in my book. Keep reaching for that rainbow, you crazy diamonds.

Here are this week's scores:

Travis A.	30
Chris W.	29
Matt O.	29
Adam O.	27
Lesley W.	27
Ross M.	27
Russ N.	27
Seth S.	27
Cade T.	26
Jeff J.	26
Spencer V.	26
Trevor W.	26
Trevor W.	26
Evan C.	24
Andrew T.	23
Jeris H.	23
Craig C.	20
Russ O.	20
Mike K.	6
Kenny K.	3
Eliot B.	0
Fabian L.	0
Justin L.	0
Spencer C.	0

Next week we get back to our winning ways when the Wyoming Cowboys come to town. Send me your scores before kickoff next Saturday.

A lotta 40s: SDSU Pick 'em scores

2010-10-10T15:47:00.002-06:00

Sheesh. Kudos to you guys. Three people got perfect 40s this week, while another three were only two points shy of perfection.

Clearly this was a good week for the Cougars and the fans that love them.

Meanwhile I... picked BYU to lose. But don't worry, I was punished for my lack of faith. My name just keeps sliding more and more down the leaderboard.

But this week isn't about me. It's about the new BYU. There's a glimmer of optimism on the horizon this season, and with more games like yesterday's we might be planning a play date in December after all.

Here are this week's top scores:

Jeff J.	40
Russ N.	40
Seth S.	40
Evan C.	38
Ross M.	38
Spencer V.	38
Jeris H.	33
Spencer C.	33
Tyler B.	33
Russ O.	32
Fabian L.	30
Kenny K.	30
Craig C.	26
Justin L.	26
Justin L.	26
Matt O.	26
Eliot B.	22
Andy O.	20
Mike K.	20
Adam O.	7
Benjy R.	7
Cade T.	7
Chris W.	7
Logan S.	7
Trevor W.	6
Andrew T.	3
Lesley W.	0
Travis A.	0

Next week we travel to Ft. Worth Texas to take on the No. 4 TCU Horned Frogs. Will it be another slaughter at the hands of the Froggies, or could it be the upset of the century?

I await your picks.

Aggied: Week 5 Pick 'em scores

2010-10-04T16:18:00.003-06:00

We lost.

But what I really want to know is what's the deal with the "Buck FYU" shirts? Really, Aggies? I thought you were better than that. Unfunny, Uninspired and Unacceptable.

Consider yourselves blocked.

But one Aggie showed his true quality this week (not to mention his true colors). Cade Taylor, so much a friend I consider him a brother, was the big winner this week. He cashed in on his Alma Mater's win, and we BYU fans could do nothing but look up with a disgusted envy.

Congratulations, Cade. May all your wildest dreams come true this season.

Here are this week's scores:

Cade T.	36
Lesley W.	32
Benjy R.	20
Kenny K.	6
Mike K.	6
Logan S.	5
Russ O.	5
Adam O.	4
Andrew T.	3
Evan C.	3
Jeris H.	2
Matt	2
Russ N.	2
Trevor W.	2
Tyler B.	2
Chris W.	0
Eliot	0
Fabian L.	0
Greg W.	0
Jeff J.	0
Spencer C.	0
Spencer V.	0
Travis A.	0

As you can see, a lot of people have dropped out of the competition. I can't say I blame them.

Next week we play San Diego State at home. I bet we lose.

Another shakeup: Week 4 pick 'em scores

2010-09-28T23:16:00.004-06:00

This has been a wild four weeks of ASB pick 'em. In past seasons the question wasn't "Will BYU win?", the question was "How badly will BYU beat the poor saps on the opposite end of the field?".

The great BYU teams of the past three, four, five seasons have given us great times, but not much mobility on the ol' Pick 'em scoreboard.

Well, this season's a little different.

No one knows if BYU's going to finally get it going, or lose another heartbreaker. Scores are changing every week, winners one week are losers the next.

It's an exciting time at ASB. I hope you're enjoying the ride.

Here are this week's top scores:

Ross M.	26
Lesley W.	22
Trevor W.	20
Andrew T.	20
Spencer V.	20
Jeris H.	10
Seth S.	9
Travis A.	9
Kenny K.	9
Eliot B.	7
Jeff J.	7
Evan C.	23
Cade T.	7
Adam O.	6
Justin L.	4
Russ N.	4
Mike K.	4
Fabian L.	4
Spencer C.	4
Greg W.	4
Matt O.	3
Andy O.	3
Logan S.	2
Tyler B.	0
Russ O.	0

The good and bad from Saturday's loss

2010-09-19T13:00:00.002-06:00

Honestly, I didn't expect we'd go into Florida State and beat the Seminoles. It was one of two unwinnable games on our schedule. I would have been thrilled with a victory, but I was already prepared to lose.

So as a result, I actually don't feel too* bad right now.

I think I may be on to something here...

Anyway, there was a lot of bad on the field on Saturday, but admit it, there was some good too. For example:

BAD: First and foremost, tackling. Wrap up boys! Either Florida State spent some time in the greaser before the game, or our defense needs to go back to seventh grade to learn how to tackle. Unbelievable.

GOOD: Jake Heaps has restored order to BYU's offense. Heaps is the guy. He's young, and he makes young mistakes, but he gives our team a much better chance to win.

BAD: The O-line lost some credibility. The supposed strength of our team let the Seminoles sack BYU QBs a whopping 8 times. Add to that QB hurries and knockdowns and we have a big problem on our hands.

GOOD: J.J. DiLuigi is officially a playmaker. JJ has to love BYU's offense right now. He's touching the ball on almost every play. And to his credit he's doing a lot with the opportunity. He consistently seems to be a bright spot.

BAD: We need to lock up our rush defense. FSU rushed for a mind-blowing 280 yards in Saturday's game. The problem surfaced vs. Washington, it was exposed vs. Air Force, and it continues to be a problem. We need to tighten up and eliminate the mistakes when we defend the run. And do it fast... like, before Nevada gets here.

GOOD: Our Pass defense looked decent. There were some big plays, but I was generally pretty happy with our pass defense. We were right on every receiver, the 'Noles just happened to make great throws and catches.

BAD: Turnovers, turnovers, turnovers. This is the second game we've lost the turnover battle. Take care of that football, Cougs.

GOOD: It only gets better from here. The Cougs will go through some growing pains, and it will be painful, but we'll continue to get better. We won't lose forever, and there will be some very bright spots this season.

Looks like it'll be another long week. But it's only a week. I predict we'll come back strong at home this Saturday and put a hurt on the Nevada Wolfpack.

*Thanks for the edit, Ross

Dropping out: FSU Pick 'em scores

2010-09-18T22:28:00.002-06:00

A lot of people forgot to send in their scores this week. Either we're all a little hungover from the Air Force loss or no one reads my blog anymore...

...hello?

It's too bad too because this week sure shook things up. Half of you Cougar fans picked BYU to win, the other more sensible half picked BYU to lose. Unfortunately, the latter half was right.

We just couldn't get that offense working. But don't worry. We'll get there.

Here are this week's scores:

Russ O.	33
Garrick I.	32
Chris W.	32
Russ N.	32
Craig C.	30
Matt O.	29
Jeris H.	29
Adam O.	29
Ross M.	26
Evan C.	26
Lesley W.	25
Cade T.	24
Andrew T.	23
Greg W.	9
Eliot B.	6
Trevor W.	3
Seth S.	0
Spencer C.	0
Justin L.	0
Fabian L.	0
Mike K.	0
Travis A.	0
Jeff J.	0

Next week should be another doozy. We face Nevada and the No. 1 rushing offense in the NCAA. Yikes.

Send in your scores

2010-09-17T11:00:00.000-06:00

Reminder: BYU plays Florida State in t-minus one day or so. Send in your scores for ASB Pick 'em before kickoff, or may heaven have mercy on your soul.

I know you're all probably thinking BYU's gonna get blown out, but keep these juicy nuggets in mind before you send in your score:

BYU has never lost in Doak Campbell Stadium

A Jimbo Fisher-coached team has never beaten the BYU Cougars

Christian Ponder, Florida State's QB, is a Pisces

O'Neill Chambers is from Harmony, Florida

Curb Your Enthusiasm isn't as funny as everyone says it is

I happen to be surprisingly optimistic about this game. I originally thought BYU would get blown out, but I feel something about the Cougars right now. I feel like they're hungry, and ready to bounce back after a bad loss to Air Force.

I still think they'll lose, but it won't be a blowout. I call 35-28, Florida State.

You know what? BYU's gonna be just fine

2010-09-16T22:06:00.004-06:00

I loved being a student at BYU. It was the time of my life. But I definitely noticed that my fellow students generally fell into two categories.

There were guys like me and my friends who were always good students, but didn't freak out if they got the occasional B on a test.

Then there are the kids who would freak out. Freak out big time. These kids get 4.0s their whole lives, and a blemish on their record is unacceptable. Seriously, BYU kids are under pressure these days.

Unfortunately that ugly pattern has creeped into the minds of some BYU sports fans. When we lose, it's like heaven is collapsing on us and the world will swallow us into its depths. Suddenly the coaches suck, the players suck, there's backbiting and discontent in the locker room and our best players are going to transfer away.

Seriously.

The rumor mongers know to strike us when we're most vulnerable.

When we lose I get upset, sure. What fan doesn't? It's tough to see your favorite team get beat up. But sour and crazy are two different things. I don't think I ever get crazy enough to assume I know what's best for the football team over, say, the coaches.

I'm pretty sure they've got a good handle on things.

Bronco hates losing just as much as we do, I'll wager, and he knows his team a whole heck of a lot better. Air Force was good, okay? And they played out of their minds. BYU was unprepared to face that option attack, and our offense sputtered uncharacteristically. But don't take that one loss as a sign of black clouds on the horizon.

The loss hurts, but we'll be okay. Jake Heaps isn't going to transfer, Bronco Mendenhall is still an amazing coach and we will win again. Don't be the uptight student who needs straight A's. It's a lot more fun to enjoy the ride.

AFA Pick 'em scores are fugly

2010-09-13T09:10:00.002-06:00

The Pick 'em scores were as ugly as the game on Saturday.

While I'm happy that most of you picked BYU to win, I'm sorry to report that it didn't help you in this week's ASB Pick 'em.

In fact only one person really benefited from the BYU loss. Inexplicably, Lesley W. picked Air Force to win, and has vaulted herself into the upper echelons of the leaderboard. Kudos, Lesley.

Cade T. also had a good week. While he didn't pick Air Force to win, Cade scored enough points to take our overall first-place spot.

Here are this week's scores:

Lesley W.	29
Cade T.	7
Eliot B.	0
Matt O.	0
Travis A.	0
Russ C.	0
Logan S.	0
Craig C.	0
Spencer V.	0
Seth S.	0
Fabian L.	0
Adam O.	0
Ross M.	0
Sam B.	0
Dan R.	0
Mike K.	0
Evan C.	0
The Boring Family	0
Casey J.	0
Justin L.	0
Trevor W.	0
Greg W.	0
Andrew T.	0
Russ N.	0
Jeris H.	0
Russ O.	0
Spencer C.	0
Andy O.	0
Chris W.	0
Kenny K.	0

Send in your scores

2010-09-10T09:53:00.004-06:00

Hey Cougar fans, another week of Pick 'em is upon us! This week BYU plays Air Force in Colorado Springs at 2 p.m.

Be sure to send me your predictions before kickoff.

There are two ways you can send me your scores:

1. By email. Send your scores to AdamsSportsBlog (at) gmail (dot) com

2. By comments. Leave your name and score in the comments section of this post.

Go Cougs!

(New to Pick 'em? No problem. There's still plenty of time to get on board. Click here to read all about ASB Pick 'em, and get playing!)

Go Vikings!

2010-09-09T15:36:00.002-06:00

(Brett Favre, Adrian Peterson and Percy Harvin may or may not be on my fantasy football team)

When Non-AQs attack

2010-09-07T17:30:00.000-06:00

I hate Utah most, and Boise State is a close second. TCU isn't too far behind. But all three of those teams made me smile this weekend.

Seeing a cadre of over-payed, over-hyped, bungling BCS coaches try to bring down the Non-AQ powerhouses is quite entertaining to me.

Frank Beamer, head coach of Virginia Tech, was a perfect example last night. I got a special joy out of watching Beamer's dumbfounded look as the BSU Broncos beat up his Hokies in every facet of the game.

Dave Wannstedt, of the Pittsburgh Panthers, has both college and NFL teams on his coaching resume. But his team, which was picked to win the Big East, looked absolutely awful against the Utes. They looked like they had never defended the forward pass before.

The same can be said of Washington fans, who strolled into LaVell Edwards Stadium on a sunny September afternoon convinced that their Huskies would roll all over the BYU Cougars.

TCU beat Oregon State, whose coach (Mike Riley) I actually like. But the BCS Beavers couldn't get it done over the supposedly inferior non-BCS Horned Frogs.

AQ coaches, fans and players need a serious reality check. There are some big boys among the non-AQ ranks, and when your team lines up against them you better be ready. Learn from the mistakes of your fallen brethren.

So close to perfection: Week one Pick 'em scores

2010-09-07T10:13:00.008-06:00

On Saturday, BYU scored with a safety, two field goals, two touchdowns, an extra point and a two-point conversion.

Add it all together and it comes to 23 points. Enough to win, obviously, but not enough to give Kenny, Seth and Russ a perfect score in week one for the inaugural ASB Pick 'em contest.

All three picked a 24-17 BYU victory. So close.

They'll have to be content to share the top of the leaderboard for now. But the lead is a slim one. A lot of people made some very good guesses, and points are plentiful.

And then there are the three pitiful souls who picked BYU to lose. Benjy, PJ and Lesley. Shame on you all. I hope you learned your lesson.

Here are week one's scores:

Name	Score
Seth	39
Kenny	39
Russ Olsen	39
Cade	38
Ross	37
Andrew Theriault	36
Adam	35
Justin	35
Logan	35
Tyler	35
Spencer Cotterell	31
Fab	30
Chris Welsh	28
Becky	27
Jeff J.	27
Russ Cleveland	26
Andy	26
Jeris	25
Travis	25
Eliot	20
Trizz	20
Russ	20
Matt	20
Benjy	9
PJ	9
Lesley	4

It's not too late to play! Anything can happen in ASB pick 'em, so if you'd still like to get in on the action simply send your BYU game predictions to AdamsSportsBlog (at) gmail (dot) com.

Putting the hurt on Locker

2010-09-06T14:00:00.001-06:00

Jake Locker didn't impress me all to much on Saturday evening. His stats look pretty good, but he didn't live up to the hype.

All we BYU fans heard through fall camp was Locker this and Locker that. He's the best athlete in the world, he's a Heisman favorite, he'll be the first pick in the NFL draft and he raised a young boy in the Seattle area from the dead.

But when the rubber met the road at LaVell Edwards Stadium, the BYU defense contained the awesome power of Locker.

Ol' Jake couldn't lead his team to victory in the season opener.

BYU's front seven is to thank for stopping Locker. They're bigger, stronger and faster than they were when we faced Jake Locker the first time in 2008. Vic So'oto and Jordan Pendleton, for example, are massive upgrades over their 2008 counterparts. It showed on Saturday, as Jake Locker only rushed for about 30 yards.

To me the best athlete on the field for Washington wasn't Locker, but running back Chris Polk. Polk ran for 92 yards against BYU, and found yards even when the holes were closing all around him. He looked good.

But BYU's defense looked better. Overall the Cougs did a great job holding the line and stopping Washington when it counted most. Plays were made on all three levels, including Eathyn Manumaleuna's pass deflection on fourth and six, Jordan Pendleton's sack in the third quarter, and Brian Logan's strong pass break up in the end zone on a crucial third down.

Locker and the UW offense were a big test for the Cougar defense, and I'm happy to say they passed with flying colors.

Starting the season off right

2010-09-05T22:23:00.003-06:00

My throat is scratchy, my energy is sapped, I’m sunburnt and exhausted.

Football season is back baby.

And the Cougars made an impressive 2010 debut yesterday scoring a 23-17 win over the upstart Washington Huskies. Washington was 5-7 last year, but are clearly on the rise and looked pretty okay yesterday.

But try as they might, they couldn’t stop the two-headed QB monster at BYU.

Riley Nelson and Jake Heaps shared snaps and passed for exactly the same amount of yards (131) in the win. Nelson looked like a gamer, running around and making plays with his feet and his weird-lookin’ left arm. Jake Heaps shook off some early jitters to lead the team with poise. They both looked great to me.

In fact I was watching the game from my south end zone seats thinking “Yeah, I don’t blame Bronco for using both QBs.” I sure wouldn’t want to have to choose between the two.

I personally liked Nelson a little bit more in yesterday’s game. His arm looked good, he led BYU to their only two touchdowns, and his ability to run my most beloved play, the dive option, made me a happy man.

But Heaps showed some great promise. He’s going to be a great BYU quarterback.

JJ DiLuigi gets my player of the game award. When Washington was wearing down in the second half, DiLuigi just got better and better. He ran the option well (with one exception), and he was great catching the ball out of the backfield. The 48-yard TD he caught from Nelson was pretty. It was a beautiful ball, first of all, but DiLuigi used great speed and quickness to make sure he got in the end zone untouched.

As far as defense is concerned, I was excited about this group. And they made me happy for the most part. The run defense was a little shaky, and they did give up some long pass plays, but they cinched up when they needed to most. In fact, Washington only converted 1-7 third downs in the second half, and 0-3 fourth downs. That’s clutch.

Props to BYU on a big season-opening win. This win, over a good Washington team, is a huge confidence builder for this young team. I see a lot of good things from our 2010 Cougars.

2010 Pick 'em

2010-09-03T10:41:00.003-06:00

After weeks of deep thought and careful consideration, I have decided to bring Pick 'em back for the 2010 BYU football season.

If you're reading this then I'm guessing you're familiar with the rules, but if not here's a quick rundown:

To play pick 'em:

1. Send me your predictions for every BYU game this year. You can send them all at once or one game at a time. Each prediction must be sent before kickoff. Email your picks to adamssportsblog (at) gmail (dot) com.

2. Win points for accurate predictions. 20 points will be given for picking the correct outcome (a BYU win or loss), and up to 10 points will be given per team based on your score predictions. A correct score will earn 10 points, and one point will be deducted for every point you're off.

For example, if you pick BYU to beat Washington 24-17, and the final score ends up being BYU 28 Washington 14 you would get...

*20 points for picking the correct outcome (a BYU win)
*6 points for being within four of BYU's true score
*7 points for being within three of UW's true score

If you find this all confusing, then just don't worry about it. Send me your predictions and I'll take care of the rest.

3. Win prizes. There will be a running tally throughout the season, and the top overall points winner will win a BYU t-shirt from the big dog. There also may be a mystery prize for a perfect weekly score of 40.

Everyone is invited to play. So... get moving! Our first game is tomorrow at 5 p.m. MDT, so you have until then to send me your picks.

Free at last

2010-08-31T21:06:00.003-06:00

We finally got what we've been waiting weeks for: An official word from BYU.

That word? Independence.

I gotta tell you, I'm feeling more excited about BYU sports than I have in a long, long time. I feel free. I feel like the shackles of an inferior conference have finally been broken, and we left 8 (or is it 10? or 11?) teams-worth of dead weight in the dust.

Independence means BYU controls its own destiny. It means we schedule who we want, when we want, with our own TV deal. We can rebroadcast our games, we can use BYUTV to its full extent, and we don't have to share Bowl and TV money with a bunch of bottom-dwellers.

Most importantly, though, independence means BYU has taken a giant step forward in the arena of exposure. We now have two platforms, BYUTV and ESPN, who reach about a trillion more homes than the mtn did in its best day. We can schedule teams from every region of the US, and we are free to spread our wings as a national brand.

Independence fits BYU's mission perfectly. And we have the support, facilities and resources to make it work. We're not Notre Dame, but we're not Utah State either (remember when USU tried to make a go as an independent?).

For BYU fans who are worried about scheduling and bowl games, I say to you relax. ESPN and the prospect of playing on national TV will help us out tremendously in that avenue. And bowl games never work out perfectly. At-large teams are always needed. And BYU draws crowds. We won't be left empty handed come bowl season.

I'm so happy guys, I can't even stand it. There's a double rainbow made of hope on the horizon for BYU.

For my ongoing thoughts on independence and all things BYU, be sure to follow me on Twitter: Twitter.com/aolsen

My thoughts about going independent

2010-08-18T21:09:00.002-06:00

Either this is one of the most bizarre power plays in school history, or BYU football is going independent. The rest of the BYU sports program will be picked up by the WAC.

Notre Dame has a similar agreement with the Big East, by the way. They are football independents, but play every other sport in the Big East Conference.

But anyway, it's in print. It's a done deal, it seems. As much as we want to shake our heads in denial, it appears that the dream of football independence is just a press conference away.

I think it's awesome.

Seriously, I couldn't be happier about this situation. For every negative point, I can think of at least two positive ones. Here are some quick thoughts I had when I heard the news:

*Scheduling won't be a problem. The No. 1 concern for most Cougar fans is scheduling, but I'm here to tell you: it won't be a problem. First, we'll have games against our fellow independents: Navy, Army and the big boy, Notre Dame. Second, the WAC will be a scheduling partner, giving us 4-5 more games every year. It'll be easier than ever to schedule Utah (even though I still say we shouldn't), and all we'll have to do is fill in the cracks with a few mid-tier BCS teams and some good non-AQs.

*Regarding scheduling, one thing BYU fans need to realize is we had a poor, poor football schedule in the MWC. Teams like CSU, UNLV and New Mexico were perennially in the bottom ten teams in the country. We don't have to do a lot to improve our schedule.

*BYU basketball, and all other sports, will be just fine. Sure, the competition level will go down a little bit, but BYU will still control their own fate. They'll still be able to play their way into the NCAAs, and they'll still have a shot at some good competition. I'm not worried about basketball at all.

*BYU independence will only work if ESPN is a willing partner. And it looks like they are. Reports are that ESPN has a gentleman's agreement with BYU to air 4-5 games a season, paying the Y around $2 million for each airing. Incidentally, BYU gets about $1.8 million from The mtn. network... PER SEASON.

*I see this as a two-year thing. BYU won't be independent forever. I see an invite to the Big 12 within two years.

*Regarding the BCS, I don't think BYU needs a Notre Dame-like clause to the bylaws of the BCS. Notre Dame has a pretty sweet path to a BCS game, and I doubt the powers that be will make a similar deal for BYU. Rather, I would just like BYU to get automatic consideration if they are in the top 14 in the BCS polls at the end of the year. Seems reasonable, right?

*Overall, this is a great move for BYU football. We finally get to break free from the awful, awful, AWFUL television deal we have with the MWC and use our state-of-the-art television production studio. We can broadcast our own games on our own HD station, and for that matter re-broadcast them. No longer will we be under the thumb of The mtn. and their army of interns who produce YouTube-quality film on gameday.

I think this makes BYU more attractive to big-name teams, who won't mind playing in Provo on ESPN, and attractive for future BCS Conference affiliation.

I hope I expressed my thoughts clear enough. I'd love to hear your opinions about the whole deal. Please leave your comments and thoughts below, and then I'll respond, and we'll do the thing where we go back and forth. Let's get the conversation going.

5 pre-season predictions

2010-08-05T09:04:00.003-06:00

The long wait is over! After enduring months of meaningless regular season baseball games and the 24-hour-a-day Brett Favre watch, I'm happy to report that it's time for college football.

BYU players report tomorrow, and fall camp officially begins on Saturday. So that means I've been eating, drinking and sleeping BYU football.

I've been doing a lot of thinking about the upcoming season, and while I'm no insider expert by any means, I've come up with a few predictions for the 2010 season. Please, indulge me.

1. Riley Nelson will start the first game of the season.

I am a Jake Heaps fan. The kid has some crazy talent, and he'll be a great QB at BYU, no doubt. But when I started thinking about it logically, I came to the conclusion that there's no way BYU will throw him to the dogs (Huskies, actually) so early. Riley Nelson will start vs. Washington.

2. BYU's defense will be VERY good.

There is a lot of young, raw talent on the defensive side of the ball for BYU in 2010. Guys like Zac Stout, Tayo Fabuluje and DeQuan Everett have all the measurables... just not the experience. Fortunately for BYU, Bronco Mendenhall recruits mature, disciplined players, and they'll be ready to answer the call.

I'm predicting a defense, led by Jordan Pendleton, Andrew Rich and others, that will be as good as any BYU defense we've seen in recent years.

3. BYU will beat Washington... lose to Florida State.

Despite having Jake Locker, the projected No. 1 draft pick of the 2011 draft, the Huskies will fall in Provo this year. BYU will come out swinging, and defense will be the deciding factor. BYU's got it, Washington doesn't. But, the magic won't last because BYU is going to get rocked at Florida State this year.

4. Drew Phillips will return a kick for a TD.

We've been waiting for it for years, but Drew Phillips, the speedy return man from Alabama, will return a kickoff for a touchdown in 2010.

5. BYU's final record in 2010 will be... 10-2

Losses at Florida State and TCU. It would seem that this is the year to pick the Y to struggle, but I just don't see many losses on the schedule for the Cougs.

There it is. There are my five predictions.

U could not survive without BYU

2010-07-28T14:36:00.002-06:00

I woke up feeling a little bitter at the U. this morning. I'm not exactly sure why, but I'm gonna roll with it.

I would like to ask Utah fans one question: How does it feel knowing your entire athletic program was built, and now thrives thanks entirely to BYU's good graces?

It may be offensive to my friends on the hill, but I am completely convinced that BYU has kept Utah alive and kicking lo these many years, and now has the power to give Utah's athletic program the death blow. How? By simply never playing them again.

Now that Utah is a lame duck in the MWC, this is the last year we'll really have to play them. After that we'll work out a schedule like we would with any other non-conference team. Therefore, we can choose not to schedule them at all. Ever again.

Can you imagine what that would be like? First of all, BYU would be fine. BYU fans love BYU, no matter who they play.

Utah fans however, would dwindle as each year passes. The Utes would ride the wave of their new-found Pac-10 stardom for the first few years, but soon they'd realize that football just isn't much fun without BYU.

The losses will pile up, the Bowl games will be less frequent, the undefeated seasons are a thing of the past, and suddenly the SLC hipsters will realize they'd rather be skiing and writing letters to Rocky Anderson than watching a mediocre Utah team. And with no BYU to fan the flames of their hate-dom, what's there to keep them interested in sports?

If BYU gave Utah the proverbial bird, and never played them again, within five years Utah's program would be at an all time low. Take it to the bank.

But fortunately for the Utes, BYU will never cut you off completely. We're just too darn benevolent.

The white lurp visits the Green Monster

2010-07-26T15:58:00.006-06:00

I need to share something with my tight-knit family of blog readers: I fulfilled a lifelong dream a few days ago.

I saw the Red Sox play in Fenway.

I've always wanted to see a game in Fenway. I don't know why... I guess I've always been enchanted by the Park since I had that dream where I attended a BoSox game with Terrance Mann, and we both saw Archibald "Moonlight" Graham's name flash on the scoreboard...

Anyway, I digress.

The Sox got rocked that night (Tim Wakefield's knuckle ball just wasn't working), but being in Boston with my wife and cheering for the Sawx was definitely something I'll always remember. Please enjoy this small collection of pictures from my trip (click to enlarge).

Just what did Tom Holmoe mean?

2010-06-29T11:30:00.001-06:00

Tom Holmoe, BYU Athletic Director, caused quite a stir when he broke BYU's vow of silence and spoke with Deseret News columnist Brad Rock.

I read the story when it was published in the paper on Saturday, June 26. When I checked Cougarboard on Monday it was as if I was inspecting the rubble after an atomic bomb blast.

BYU nation exploded with excitement, and now the Monday clean up crews were busy at work trying to pick up the pieces.

The biggest mystery, though, was this quote by Holmoe:

"It's a good check for us right now," Holmoe continued. "There's a lot of work for us to do. ... In this time frame, we have our allegiances. BYU has certain allegiances, and BYU has lived up to them, and now we have opportunities that didn't exist in the past."

(Emphasis added)

What did Holmoe mean? What are these mysterious allegiances? What opportunities exist now that didn't exist before?

It's all very curious...

I'd love to hear your interpretations. We already know what my dad thinks.

BREAKING NEWS: BYU to the Big XII

2010-06-28T22:33:00.002-06:00

…at least that's what my dad thinks.

Whether you know me personally or just follow this blog, you know that my dad, the Big KO, is my brother-in-arms when it comes to BYU sports.

We have daily BYU pow-wows where we discuss the latest and greatest from our Alma Mater.

So I wasn't surprised when Tom Holmoe's recent comments to the press came up in our conversation. Both of us were intrigued by Holmoe's statements, but my dad has adopted an especially extreme interpretation. He explained his feelings to me just tonight.

"You just wait," he said. "BYU is going to make a big announcement by August 15."

I inquired, "What's that?"

His response: BYU will be invited to the Big XII. He said it with such unflinching conviction that I had to ask who gave him his information.

He told me he didn't have a source. It was a gut feeling.

Now, it's no secret that I don't believe any of this Big XII hoo-ha. BYU just has too much baggage. Nevertheless, KO was unshaken in his confidence.

He was so confident, in fact, that we made a bet. I bet that come August 15 BYU would be where it is right now: Languishing away as a mid-major in the BCS. My dad bet that by August 15 we would have an invitation in-hand to join the Big XII. Winner gets a nice dinner at Mendy's… or another restaurant of his choice.

So what do you guys think? Who's going to win the bet?

The World Cup made a soccer fan out of me

2010-06-25T15:06:00.003-06:00

Man, I am all kinds of confused right now.

I come before you today a conflicted man. For 26 years I've been a true-blooded American soccer hater, but now I can't get enough of it.

I blame Landon Donovan.

That dude's goal in the 91st minute of the World Cup match pitting the United States against Algeria is what won me over. In fact, that whole game was a masterpiece. It had me on the edge of my seat, jumping up and down, crying and laughing at the same time.

I've never liked soccer. Even when I played the game as a 4-year-old I didn't like it. But man, I am in to this whole World Cup thing.

At first I didn't like that soccer games were so low-scoring. But now each minute that passes without a goal fills the air with more and more tension. It gets to a point that when a team finally does score all of your emotion explodes into a frenzied cheer. Such was the case when the US beat Algeria.

I also didn't like how games can end in ties. But I didn't understand the scoring system. Ties award teams points, and a tie game could be the difference between first place or last place in a team's group (kind of like the United States in Group C).

It's still not totally satisfying to we Yanks who are used to high-scoring sports with clear winners after every game, but what can I say? I'm growing up.

Now I am full steam ahead for the United States. I'll be watching every game from here on out, and if I could find a zuzuvela horn somewhere in Provo I'd buy it in a heartbeat.

Go USA!

By the way, if you haven't seen this video yet, consider today your lucky day:

United by the World Cup

2010-06-17T21:33:00.000-06:00

Okay, enough talk about BYU and Utah. Now is the time when BYU fans, Utah fans and all true blooded Americans unite...

...in their hatred of soccer.

Actually, I'm lying. I am surprised by how much I'm enjoying the 2010 World Cup. I'm quickly finding that soccer, like high fructose corn syrup, is great in moderation.

Go USA!

Utah Utes leave BYU behind

2010-06-16T19:16:00.004-06:00

Hard to imagine a day any worse than this one.

I'm going to attempt to summarize simply how I feel tonight, but don't misunderstand: The ride I've been on, along with every other college football fan in this great country, has been a wild one.

Suffice it to say, my roller-coaster ride ended today when the Pac-10 announced it would add the Utah Utes to its numbers. Little did I know that after the ride I would be deposited into a swirling cesspool of cotton candy vomit depression.

I sailed through denial. Anger and bargaining were a breeze. But the depression stage is one tough nut to crack.

Here's why I'm down in the dumps:

The Utes and the Cougars have a symbiotic relationship. At least they did, anyway. We depended on each other.

We both hated each other, but we were partners. We built up the WAC together, we formed the MWC together, we fought against the BCS together. There were even positive signs that we would take the MWC to automatic-qualifier status. Together.

Now? not.

Utah jumped ship. I can't say I blame them. I would hope BYU would have done the same thing. I guess... it's just a shock to the system. I mean, Utah is a BCS-caliber team. They deserve to be in a BCS conference. I just find it so amazing that they would so willingly and quickly leave BYU behind given the chance. Where's the loyalty?

What's done is done I guess, but the unfortunate result is one of the greatest rivalries in college sports is flatlining. Don't kid yourself: Taking the conference implications away from our beloved rivalry game is like removing the teeth from an alligator. It's still big... but who cares?

Now we'll likely play each other in September, maybe even the first game of the season. No more will we fight for the conference championship, in any sport. Scheduling is optional now. Maybe we won't even play each other every year.

In other words... we have a new Utah State.

And what about Deseret First Credit Union?! Did anyone even consider their beloved Duel???

Now BYU fans like myself are asking themselves that old familiar question: "Will anything good happen to BYU ever again?" I mean what's the deal here... are we being punished? It sure feels like we're being punished.

Imagine watching your arch-nemesis fulfill your wildest dreams not once, not twice, but THRICE. Is there anything worse than that?

So now we sit. The news has broken, Utah's departure is imminent. There's just not much left for BYU fans to cling to. Some naive Cougars are still holding on to hope that the Big 12 will save us, but I know better. The MWC is our home. Now and forever.

Write it down everyone. June 16, 2010: The suckiest day in Utah sports history.

Guest Post: An arranged marriage in the Pac-12

2010-06-16T15:21:00.004-06:00

Editor's Note: Wow... it's been a while, hasn't it? Well the Pac-10 expansion has shocked me back into activity. Read this guest post now, and check back soon for my thoughts.

By: KO

What an odd choice for the Pac 10: Colorado and Utah. Absolutely no history, no tradition, no rivalry, no brand and no fan following. It's like an arranged marriage. Think of the current Pac 10:

Arizona/Arizona ST.
UCLA/USC
Stanford/Cal
Oregon/Oregon St.
Washington/Washington St.

And add to it (drum roll please. . . )

Colorado/Utah

A manufactured rivalry? A manufactured association? This is clearly a deal for television sets, not classy institutions.

Here's the real question, though, do the TV sets in Denver flicker on whenever Colorado hits the field?

The CU Football field holds 53,000 and they average 46,000. They average 6,700 at B-ball games. It's hard to believe life stops in Denver during a Buffs game.

Likewise, Utah has a stadium that holds 45,000 and they struggle to have one or two sell-outs per year. Are the TV ratings for Ute games that impressive?

Fast forward 5 or so years when the Utes are laboring every year for 4th or 5th place in the Pac-12. No ranking. No prestige. A lot to sell for a few coins.

Meanwhile, BYU just has to keep doing what it has been doing... winning games. Whether the MWC achieves AQ status or not, or if BYU gets an invite to the Big 12 or not, in the end winning is still everything.

As for the BYU/Utah rivalry? It just took a big hit. Frankly, my energy on it just lowered by 90%. It is going to be just a game, like USU. Nothing on it, nothing to gain or lose really. Another non-conference game. I hate the school, but now my hatred is turning to indifference. A great rivalry will be destroyed this week and it is a real shame.

What a weekend!

2010-04-25T22:08:00.004-06:00

This was one of those great sports weekends you're always hearing about in the movies.

It started on Friday night when the Jazz completely blew up the Nuggets in game three of their first-round Playoff series. Paul Millsap was close to perfect (9-9 from the field at one point), and picked up 19 rebounds. I couldn't even get ten in my finest BYU intramural game!

Saturday was a tour of the forgotten sports at BYU. I went to the BYU vs. Utah baseball game in the afternoon, and then the MPSF tournament-opening volleyball match in the evening.

If you haven't been to a Cougar baseball game at Miller Park, I highly recommend it. A prettier setting for a baseball game you simply will not find. A snow-capped Y Mountain in the background, a freshly groomed field in the foreground and a soul-satisfying time all-around.

This particular game was classic. It was knotted pretty much the whole way when the Utes took a late lead. Utah was up 4-3 heading into the bottom of the ninth, then Bryce Ayoso knocked in the tying run and Alex Wolfe hit a walk-off two-run shot with Ayoso on base to seal the deal. It was awesome. The team celebrated with Wolfe at home plate, and the record crowd rejoiced.

The volleyball match was just as exciting. The Cougars pounded the UCLA Bruins three sets to one. They hammered the ball with precision, and the California pretty boys were overpowered.

The game was played in another one of BYU's all-time great sports venues: The Smith Fieldhouse. That place is just nasty. It's old, there are exposed nails around every corner, and I'm sure it's in violation of all kinds of fire codes. You could hear the rafters shaking with every cheer of the crowd.

I still say we should play one basketball game a year in that old mess of a gym.

And now it's Sunday night and the Jazz are about to beat the Nuggets again to take a commanding 3-1 series lead.

Game 4 was all about my blossoming love of Wesley Mathews. In fact, I feel like Game 4 was just a long submission from a video dating service. Mathews has turned into our best defender, a legitimate scoring threat and an all-around hustle player... and he was an UNDRAFTED FREE AGENT!

Get prepared for a fat raise when your current contract is up, boy. I've got a feeling you're going to be the new Paul Millsap.

Man, I feel good. This weekend couldn't have gone any better.

BYU lands JuCo hoops star

2010-04-21T19:53:00.003-06:00

Steven Rogers, a Junior College All-American basketball player from Mesa Community College, committed to BYU Hoops and coach Dave Rose today.

Rogers is a 6'8" wing who is reportedly one heck of a shooter. From all indications, he'll fit in well with the Cougars. He's got good length for a wing, so he'll probably create a lot of mismatches, he'll be good on the boards, and he'll be one more scoring threat in addition to Jimmer Fredette, Jackson Emery, Brandon Davies and the other Cougar superstars.

Rogers was a nice get for the Cougs. He chose BYU over Utah State in a recruiting battle that went right down to the wire. I'm happy for our newest Cougar, but at this moment I'm also in awe of Coach Dave Rose.

Rose has dazzled me with his recruiting acumen. When Rose wants somebody, he gets him. He's batting near a thousand when it comes to landing big-name recruits.

Welcome aboard, Steve! May your years at BYU be plenteous and bountiful.

A great decision

2010-04-21T19:35:00.002-06:00

It seems I falsely wrote Harvey Unga off as a BYU Cougar in my last post. I apologize. Not only is he not entering the NFL Supplemental draft, but according to coach Bronco Mendenhall, he is "desperately" trying to return to BYU in time for his senior season.

When the news came out today I was overjoyed.

Seriously. I didn't get sappy or anything, but I couldn't help but feel good about a man who owned up to his mistakes and has committed to taking the necessary steps to make things right.

Hearing that Harvey has made returning to BYU his No. 1 goal made me smile. I hope he can set things right, and I hope BYU finds him fit to return to school and the team.

Way to go, Harvey. You're all aces in my book.

Harvey, Harvey, Harvey...

2010-04-19T16:43:00.003-06:00

I remember being in the Marriott Center when Harvey Unga made the public announcement that he'd be returning to BYU for his senior year. It was the halftime of a BYU basketball game, and the crowd when completely crazy when Unga made his announcement.

And now?

Now Harvey is gone. He withdrew from school after an honor code violation, and will try to enter the NFL in July's supplemental draft.

The minute I read the news I had a sick feeling in my stomach. I felt, and still feel, monumentally sorry for Harvey Unga. I don't condemn him for making a mistake; I just feel awful that this particular mistake happened to have some pretty dramatic consequences.

Now Harvey walks away from a college degree to make a future for himself in the NFL without going through any workouts and without having the optimal skill set for his size and stature.

He's too big to be a running back.

And he's too inexperienced to play fullback.

Yeah, this mistake (in my humble opinion) hurt Harvey more than it hurt BYU. BYU loaded up at RB anticipating Harvey's early departure to the NFL. Right now we've got 3-5 guys that are highly touted and will ready to step up in the fall. We'll miss Harvey a whole lot, don't get me wrong, but we recruited heavily at RB thinking we wouldn't see Unga again anyway.

So now we move forward, and one of the most popular players in BYU history, and the school's all-time leading rusher, has black mark on his otherwise clean-as-a-whistle name. It sucks.

We love you Harvey. All the best.

The most devastating calf injury in the history of man

2010-04-16T14:34:00.004-06:00

It's official: AK47 is injured again and will likely miss the entire Jazz/Nuggets playoff series.

I don't know about you guys, but I'm not so sure $18 million is worth a half-a-season's work anymore.

Kut Kirilenko Now!

The Utah Jazz: Unwatchable

2010-04-14T22:46:00.003-06:00

I'm writing this post in the middle of what should have been the celebratory, or at least competitive, fourth quarter of one of the most important games of the season.

It's not. The game, against the Phoenix Suns, has become an unwatchable mess. It was over in the middle of the fourth quarter, and today the Jazz no longer look like Playoff Contenders. Instead, they've sunk below "Bottom Dweller" to somewhere near the level of "comedy troupe"; their game has become a series of humorous follies and comical mishaps.

The thing is this should have been the game to assert themselves. If the Jazz would have won (assuming they lost... ha) they would have played the Trailblazers in the first round, with home court advantage, all while avoiding the Lakers until the Western Conference Finals.

Turns out the Jazz missed the memo: Home court advantage is pretty important in the playoffs.

I guess we're content with languishing in the fifth seed, playing Denver on the road and probably extending our offseason by an extra week or so.

What a joke.

I'm angry. At the whole team? Sure. But a large portion of my anger is directed toward two men: Andre Kirilenko and Carlos Boozer. Both of these lillywhites sat out tonight with a tummy ache (Boozer) and a calf bruise (Kirilenko).

Where's the fire? Where's the competitive edge? Where is Karl Malone when we need him? The Mailman certainly wouldn't have benched himself during a crucial game like this. Neither would Stockton.

I wish we had some ironmen back on the Jazz roster. I am so sick of these bloated contract players sitting out whenever they please, then cashing a huge check. The Jazz are playing with their biggest payroll in team history, but the quality of play hasn't improved in the slightest.

Cut Boozer, Cut Kirilenko, cut all these crappy wing players, and let's build a real team around Deron Williams.

Nothing makes me as mad as the Utah Jazz.

Three sights at Spring Practice

2010-04-12T09:00:00.000-06:00

Man, Saturday was a great day. The weather was warm, the air was fresh and there were footballs flying through the air of LaVell Edwards Stadium.

That combination would make even those weird little emo kids that hang out at the mall smile.

I know I was certainly all smiles, but like I said in an earlier post the feeling was bitter-sweet. It was awesome to see the team play, but this open practice also signaled the end of Spring practice, and the beginning of a looooooooooong summer of waiting.

But let's not talk about that. Let's talk about three things a punk BYU fan (me) saw and liked at BYU's open Spring Practice.

1. Wide Receivers. Our WRs are the most impressive group of athletes at BYU, in my most humble opinion. I took one look at newcomers Cody Hoffman and Ross Apo and knew we had a pair of special players coming into the fold. Then you add in O'Neill Chambers (who looked to me bigger, stronger and faster) and McKay Jacobsen, and we could be stretching the field to new lengths next year. These guys are tall, lean like gazelles and they look like playmakers.

2. Q. Josh Quezada impressed me on Saturday. Every time he touched the ball he showed a combination of speed and power. He scored the only TD of the day on a nine-yard run, and he hit holes hard and burst through the line with gusto. He also showed good hands catching the ball out of the backfield. He could be the next in a line of what is becoming the best string of RBs at BYU in school history.

3. My take on the QBs. I've made it semi-public that I am in the Riley Nelson camp. I think Riley could be a really good QB at BYU-- he brings a different element to our offense, and already has a year's worth of experience. A year in the program is what Jake Heaps could use, in my opinion.

Having said that, Jake throws one beautiful ball. He made every throw look easy, and the ball simply jumped out of his hand. Nelson, on the other hand, really had to put his whole body into deeper throws.

I wish Jake would have had more live scrimmage experience on Saturday; it seemed like he only got one or two chances. It would have been nice to see him really get a chance to get in a rhythm.

But I think I'm still behind Nelson. I saw him play last year, and I'm really excited to see what he can do as the No. 1 guy. He deserves a shot, and Jake would benefit with a redshirt year.

Anyway, that's my take. Who else was there at Spring Practice? Make yourselves known, and please share your insights.

The Masters

2010-04-11T23:15:00.003-06:00

Huge fan of The Masters, and huge fan of Phil Mickelson. So I'm a happy camper tonight.

The first Major tournament of the year lived up to all the hype (it always does), and I was on the edge of my couch all afternoon. K.J. Choi looked like a machine heading into the back nine, and I honestly didn't know if Lefty was going to move into the lead after nothing but pars in the first seven holes.

But alas, Phil showed grit and a steady hand (very un-Phil-like, by the way), and he won his third green jacket.

I'll be honest, I love watching golf. I know it bores the faces off most people, but golf tournaments to me are more dramatic and more thrilling than most other sports. NASCAR, for example.

And plus, does it get any better than Augusta? Tell me those camera shots and that incredibly beautiful course didn't make you want to blow your savings and buy tickets to next year's tournament. I know I have officially added seeing the Masters live to my bucket list.

Anyway, congratulations Phil. I'm glad you won, I'm glad Tiger lost and I'm glad the Majors season started with another classic.

VIDEO: BYU basketball recap

2010-04-07T16:17:00.003-06:00

I'm still trying to find the words to officially bring the BYU basketball season to a close. Until I do, please enjoy this video (which, by the way, is much better than anything I could ever say).

Video Courtesy of KSL.com

Steven Rogers: Future Cougar

2010-04-07T09:16:00.003-06:00

There's been a lot of talk recently about Stephen Rogers, the 6-8 wing from Mesa Community College by way of ASU.

Rogers has received a lot of recruiting attention and has narrowed his choices to BYU, New Mexico and Utah State. BYU was a late-comer to the Rogers sweepstakes, but has been "coming on strong" to Rogers' services.

Rogers was the Arizona JuCo player of the year, and averages about 21 points per game.

He's also a shooter. Big time shooter. Like, more of a shooter than JT was a shooter, shooter.

This is from BYU beat-writer Jay Drew's blog: "One of Rogers’ coaches told me that if you think Jonathan Tavernari liked to fire the ball up from all over the place, you should see this kid. '[Rogers] hasn't met a shot he didn't think he could make,' he said."

I like JT, and I like shooters, but I hope Rogers can play defense. I'd be a lot happier with a lock-down defender than a crazy shooter at this point.

And I have to wonder, will Cougar faithful have a collective heart attack with two more years of a JT-like chucker?

Springtime football: A dud

2010-04-05T17:19:00.004-06:00

Man, it's a weird time of the year, isn't it? Spring football is pushing forward with the strength and force of the fighting 506th during the battle of Carentan. And yet we still have months of waiting in our foxholes before we see any meaningful sports action again.

(Sorry, I've been watching a lot of Band of Brothers lately.)

Point is, we're all getting really excited about... well, nothing really.

The reports I read from Camp Cougar are interesting, and I hang on every word, but I can't shake the feeling that I've still got a long summer of waiting ahead of me. It would be nice if I had a Spring Game to look forward to, but in what may be a chilling sign of things to come Bronco Mendenhall has canceled the game for the second-straight year.

My gut tells me the days of the BYU Spring Game are over.

The point is I'm not too crazy about Spring practice. It's just not doing it for me this year. Don't get me wrong I love the reports, but I just feel so separated from the whole deal. I feel like it's just a formality these days.

The QB race won't be decided till fall...

A lot of the best players won't play till fall...

No Spring Game...

There is one open practice, which I will most definitely attend, but other than that I'm hunkering down with with my K rations, ready for the long, cold off-season haul.

Any answers out there? How are you guys staying interested in these mundane Spring practices? I could use some fresh ideas.

Guest Post: The 2009-2010 sports year

2010-03-23T13:32:00.002-06:00

By Travis Adamson

Remember this classic ASB post?

We've reached the end of another sports year. So how does this year measure up? Admirably. We beat Utah again, and again on a heroic play from the Utes' most hated player to another BYU great TE.

Kyle did not get in a fistfight with his grandma, but his son did steal a Blackberry and was almost disqualified from serving a mission if not for kyle stepping in and making things ok with the wronged BYU fans.

In even better news, Max Hall expressed his hatred for the Utes during the post-game interview and totally represented my feelings in the process.

Utah basketball has become a joke. A punch line. Those who say the rivalry is at its best when both teams are good are wrong. The rivalry is at its best when BYU is good and Utah sucks. When all the Utes have to look forward to is the MWC Defensive Player of the Year being awarded to David Foster's pituitary gland, and sneaking up on UNLV to play spoiler.

When BYU's bench beats Utah at home worse than they have ever been beaten; when Gordon Monson moves on from taking shots at Bronco to taking shots at Jim Boylen; Utah makes a late season run (in their undies) for the CBI but gets left on the bubble: That's a good year.

Ute fans everywhere drop a Drca in their pants this year. Their prized shooting guard is a scrawny whiny baby who shoots every time he gets the ball.

Oh, and BYU had the most entertaining player in the country and kicked serious butt all year long, including beating the 2006 & 2007 national champ in the NCAA tourney in double OT with 37 points from our PG.

Good year.

Travis Adamson is a BYU blue-blood from the Northwestern United States. He may be in Husky country, but his heart still resides in LaVell Edwards Stadium. He is a guest blogger and His views do not necessarily reflect those of Adam's Sports Blog or its parent company, Cougar Crazies Ltd.

Reverse the curse!

2010-03-17T21:39:00.002-06:00

Just a quick shout out to the bracket-busting Cougs. Here's hoping they reverse all the painful years and notch a win on the national stage.

In the interest of full disclosure I should say that I have filled out three brackets, and I've put BYU in the Elite 8 in two of them, and the Final Four in the other.

So yeah, I'm not short on moxie by any means. I just figure we'll have to take care of business against Florida, play a great game against K-State, and then we'll be in Salt Lake City for the Sweet 16. The home court advantage there will be good for at least one win.

Anyway, where did you put the Cougs? I'm intrigued.

Go BYU!

A final thought before I drive home

2010-03-13T00:29:00.002-07:00

We didn't beat UNLV today, but we will beat them in Las Vegas eventually.

It may be sooner, it may be later. But it will happen.

And when it does, I want to be in the crowd. I want to be in the Thomas & Mack so I can look all the dirty Rebel fans in the eyes as they file out of the arena. I want to rub it in every last one of their foul-mouthed, disgusting, beer-swilling, greasy faces. I want to send them home as losers.

I hope no one would look at me for a shining example of quiet dignity, because I would be at my worst.

It will happen one day, and that is a day I cannot wait for.

That is all.

The revenge tour

2010-03-09T23:17:00.003-07:00

It's another first for me. I'm driving to Las Vegas tomorrow with several changes of clothing to cheer on the Cougs at the MWC Championship Tournament.

I'm booked in the hotel through Sunday, and I am hoping with all my heart that I have a reason to stay the whole time.

See, the Cougs have a rough road on their way to the Tournament trophy. It starts out easy enough, with a TCU rematch, but then we'll most likely have to beat UNLV and then New Mexico for the championship. In other words, we'll have to exorcise a few demons.

First we'll have to beat UNLV on their home court, in front of their home crowd. I was there when BYU played at the T&M earlier this year, and it wasn't pretty. It was a crap-fest, actually.

Then we'll have to beat the New Mexico Lobos, along with their "player of the year" Darrington Hobson. UNM is a team we haven't beaten yet this year. Oh, and their coach called Jonathan Tavernari an A-hole.

(By the way you can read all my thoughts about the idiotic MWC post-season awards voting on Twitter: http://twitter.com/aolsen)

We've got two tall tasks ahead of us, but I believe we can slay both of those giants. I wouldn't have shelled out the dough to go down to Vegas if I didn't think we could win it all.

In fact, not only do I think we can win, I'm actually looking forward to the challenge. I want to lay a beat down on the Rebels in front of their own obnoxious fans. I want Jimmer Fredette to hit 10 shots right in Darrington Hobson's face. When the dust settles on the MWC Championship Tournament, I want there to be no doubt that BYU is the best team in the MWC.

I want revenge.

And honestly, I hope the players feel the same way. I hope they are hungry. I hope they have pictures of Steve Alford hung up on their hotel mirrors. I hope they dream at night of ripping Tre'Von Willis' face off.

This tournament is a huge opportunity for the Cougs, and I hope they treat it as such.

Now wish me luck, and tell me if I make it on TV.