From: "CougarFan.com" Subject: FB Pre-Game: Colorado State -- Thursday 7:45 p.m. MST Date: 01 Nov 2001 13:48:45 -0700  
CougarFan.com FB Pre-Game:  Colorado State -- Thursday 7:45 p.m. MST

 
Quick Facts
Team Colorado State University Rams
Location Provo, UT
Day Thursday, 11/01/2001
Time 7:45 p.m. MST
TV ESPN2
Internet Radio  http://www.ksl.com/radio/listen/listen.php
Records BYU 8-0 (4-0), CSU 4-4 (3-1)
Last Meeting 2000:  Colorado State 45, BYU 21
Weather Partly cloudy : high 60, low 36
Latest Line BYU by 14.5 points

 
Game Overview

BYU is back at home this week, where Gary Crowton's team has been averaging 59 points per game.  The Cougars will put the nation's third-longest winning streak on the line against the last team to beat them.  Interestingly, last year's game in Colorado State was also the birthplace of Brandon Doman's career as the commander of the BYU offense.  Trailing 45-0 in the second half, LaVell Edwards inserted Doman into the lineup and watched as he led the Cougs to three late touchdowns.  Following that game, Doman has reeled off 10 straight victories at the helm of the BYU offensive juggernaut.

It has become almost a foregone conclusion this year that the offense will put up big numbers, so perhaps the key to this game will be the defense's ability to shut down Colorado State.  Although they had a tough time shutting down Larry Ned, BYU's defense came up with some big plays last week, as Ryan Denney returned a blocked field goal for a touchdown and Isaac Kelley also got his first career score off an interception.  The defense will try to carry some of that emotion through to tonight's game.  As the season wears on, the Rams are putting together a more balanced offensive attack, but have turned to trick plays to create some momentum-shifting moments over the last few weeks.

Colorado State is one of BYU's oldest rivals, and tonight marks the 60th game in a series that dates back to 1922.  At least to some degree, CSU has surplanted BYU as the power team of the conference over the past several seasons.  One or both of the schools has claimed at least a share of the league title in each of the last several years, and since 1994, they are the 10th and 11th winningest programs in the nation (BYU with 69 wins, CSU with 68).  A big part of the Rams' success has been the coaching of former Miami assistant Sonny Lubick, who isn't scared by BYU.  He has a career record of 5-4 on the road vs. ranked teams, and feels that his team could very well pull the upset tonight.  After watching quarterback D.J. Busche lead his team to a 2-2 start, Lubick named another sophomore, Bradlee Van Pelt, his field general.  While Van Pelt isn't your prototypical passer, he is a good athlete and a gifted runner.  He is also the stereotypical California surfer dude, and gets lots of comments on his long hair.  With his easy-going personality to lead the team, Colorado State is on a roll.  Three weeks ago, the Rams took Fresno State into overtime, and have won their last two games.  Looks like they're ready for a typical November, when they're 19-3 under Coach Lubick.

On the other side of the ball, CSU's strong point is their defensive backfield.  However, like BYU, their defensive line has given up some big numbers to opposing running backs.  The yards that other teams have been able to churn out haven't always translated into points, however, and CSU has only allowed an average of 20 points per game.  BYU would like to up that average like they have against other good defenses.  Colorado State's special teams has been good again this year, and they're fourth in the nation for kickoff returns.  Their punter has been nominated for postseason awards.
 
 
Implications

BYU gets a great opportunity to play a Thursday night game in front of a national audience against a respected opponent.  A win would be a great publicity boost, whereas a loss would mean that the Cougs would drop behind CSU in the conference race.

Colorado State upset Utah last week to move into sole possession of second place in the MWC.  A win tonight would give them the inside track to the conference championship and a Liberty Bowl berth.
 
 
Players to Watch

BYU
 

#10, Andrew Ord (WR) -- After catching only three balls in the first six games this year, Ord has hauled in 13 over the last two weeks.  Even with Rod Wilkerson coming back to share time with him, this big, physical receiver has shown himself to be a big part of the Cougars' offensive scheme.

#34, Brandon Heaney (CB) -- He's worked his way into a starting spot for BYU since transferring from Air Force.  His speed and solid tackling will be important against Colorado State's talented receivers.

#92, Ryan Denney (DE) -- In my book, this guy's just amazing.  He leads the team in tackles for loss at 13, and has five batted down passes.  On top of that, last week he used his 6'7", 275 pound body to outrun everybody for a touchdown after Justin Ena blocked an SDSU field goal.  Last year against CSU, he blocked two punts that turned into BYU scores.

Colorado State

#4, Pete Rebstock (WR) -- Besides being the Rams' leading receiver, this short speedster is also one of the leading punt returners in the nation.  Last year against BYU, he scored touchdowns on a punt return and on a 69 yard reception.

#22, Jason Gallimore (S) -- He was named the MWC defensive player of the week after an amazing outing against Utah last Saturday.  He and his identical twin brother, Justin, who is an all-conference cornerback for the Rams, both scored defensive touchdowns against Wyoming last year.

#27, Dallas Davis (WR) -- He gives CSU a one-two punch at the receiver spot.  After being granted a medical redshirt two games into the season last year because of back and leg injuries, he has been outstanding as a fifth year senior.
 
 
 
Records to Watch

BYU holds an ongoing NCAA record of 332 consecutive games without being shut out.

Luke Staley broke the university's single season touchdown record last week with his 17th score of the season, and can add to it tonight.  He also just needs 104 yards to break the 1000 yard mark for the season.

Luke Staley is in second place on BYU's career touchdown list with 37, and it's only a matter of time until he breaks the record of 40, held by Jamal Willis.

Luke Staley needs 21 points to tie Owen Pochman for the single season scoring record, which is amazing for a non-kicker.

Gary Crowton is the only coach to start his tenure at BYU by winning more than his first two games.  He can go to 9-0 tonight.
 
 
Injury Report

BYU

Brian McDonald Ashford (RB) -- He had his ACL repaired surgically a week ago and is out for the seaon.  Coach Crowton will apply for a medical hardship redshirt this summer, but it's unlikely that the NCAA will grant it because the injury occurred in the fifth game of the season.

Jason Scukanec (C) -- After leaving the game with an MCL tear against San Diego State, he is still slated to start tonight.

Rod Wilkerson (WR) -- He is expected to be back from his knee injury.

Colorado State

Henri Childs (RB) -- This special teams superstar will likely be back in the game after missing some time to recover from concussions.

Aaron Green (OL) -- He's listed as questionable.

Lucas Smith (DL) -- This starter is doubtful with a back injury.
 
 
Statistics

Team Statistics (National Ranking, Statistic)
 
 
BYU
CSU
Category
Rank 
Stat
Rank 
Stat
Total Offense (yds/g)
 2
 532.1
 94
 323.4
Total Defense (yds/g)
 82
 406.0
 71
  389.5
Scoring Offense (pts/g)
 1
50.1
 87
20.9
Scoring Defense (pts/g)
 59
24.6
 28
20.0
Rushing Offense (yds/g)
 13
 219.9
 43
 167.8
Rushing Defense (yds/g)
 101
 206.0
 75
 174.6
Passing Offense (yds/g)
9
 312.3
 100
 155.6
Passing Defense (yds/g)
 49
 200.0
 67
 214.9
Passing Defense (efficiency)
27
 105.4
 63
121.7
Turnover Margin
 3
1.38
 42
.25
Punt Returns (yds/ret)
 58
 9.2
 36
10.9
Kickoff Returns (yds/ret)
31
22.6
4
26.7
Net Punting (yds/punt)
 54
35.8
 5
40.2

Individual Statistics - Players in the Top 50 Nationally
 
 Category  Player
Rank
 Statistic
BYU
Rushing Luke Staley
 8
  128.0 yds/g
Passing Efficiency  Brandon Doman
4
  167.9 rating
Total Offense Brandon Doman
 7
  297.1 yds/g
Receptions Reno Mahe
 28
  6.1 rec/g
Interceptions  Jernaro Gilford
 18
  .5 ints/g
Kickoff Returns Mike Rigell
40
  24.0 yds/ret
Scoring Luke Staley
 1
  14.6 pts/g
  Matt Payne
29
  8.3 pts/g
All-Purpose Yds Luke Staley
14
 153.3 yds/g
CSU
Punting Joey Huber
24
  43.1 yds/p
Punt Returns  Dexter Wynn
7
  15.1 yds/ret
Kickoff Returns  Dexter Wynn
14
  28.2 yds/ret

Hypothetical Game
(If the the teams played an exactly average game)
 
BYU
CSU
Score
35
 23
Total Offense (yds)
461
365
Rushing Offense (yds)
197
186
Passing Offense (yds)
  264
178
Turnovers
1
 2

Fan Picks from the Football Challenge

86% of you picked BYU to win this week.
The average score was BYU 26, CSU 22.
.
 
National Rankings

BYU and Opponents
 
 AP
Coaches
BCS*
 Result
BYU
13
8
13
 -
Tulane
-
-
107
 W: 70-35
Nevada
-
-
97
 W: 52-7
Cal
-
-
85
 W: 44-16
UNLV
-
-
83
 W: 35-31
Utah State
-
-
98
 W: 54-34
New Mexico
-
-
82
 W: 24-20
Air Force
-
-
63
 W: 63-33
SDSU
-
-
67
 W: 59-21
Colorado St.
-
-
77
 Thu, Nov 1
Wyoming
-
-
76
 Sat, Nov 10
Utah
-
-
56
 Sat, Nov 17
Mississippi St.
-
-
24
 Sat, Dec 1
Hawaii
-
-
101
 Sat, Dec 8

* BCS = Bowl Championship Series, a composite ranking including the other polls mentioned here.  This ranking is used to determine the #1 versus #2 bowl matchups.
 
 
Go Cougs!

Copyright 1999-2001, CougarFan.com

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------------------------------------------------------------------------------- From: "CougarFan.com" Subject: News Recap - Heisman Watch; New Store Date: 06 Nov 2001 07:43:46 -0700 CougarFan.comNews Recap - Heisman Watch; New Store

Selected articles included here. See all the latest news at:  http://CougarFan.com

Heisman Watch: BYU QB Ranks among Best (CBS Sportsline)
See: http://www.sportsline.com/b/page/pressbox/0,1328,4483226,00.html

"The Cougars have an offense that could break a scoreboard but a defense that would make Vince Lombardi break a chalkboard. The average BYU game finishes 23 yards short of 1,000 in combined yardage. Up and down the field. Quarterback U.

"Brigham Young QB Brandon Doman is at the helm of the nation's No. 1 offense.(AP)

"Looks like the days of old, doesn't it?" former coach LaVell Edwards said.

"Yes and no. Look below the surface. Yes, the Cougars have an outstanding quarterback guiding the nation's No. 1 offense, and a porous defense. But, no, this is not your typical BYU team. Following what seems to be their exclusive stereotype, the Cougars (9-0) are off to their best start since the 1984 national championship season."
 

Get BYU Stuff at the New CougarFan Store
See: http://cougarfan.com/store/

CougarFan.com has teamed up with the BYU Bookstore to bring you everything you could want in BYU gear.  Go to the new CougarFan Store and you will find hats, sweatshirts, mini helmets, childrens clothing and much more.

Visit http://cougarfan.com/store/ today!
 

Football Recruiting Heats Up (Provo Daily Herald)
See: http://www.harktheherald.com/article.php?sid=29532

"At Eastern Arizona, Samoan Shawn Nu'a is a 6-foot-3, 275-pound sophomore who is getting attention from ASU, Southern Cal and BYU. He attended the same high school in Samoa as Gabriel and Spencer Reid.

"At El Camino Community College, the school that brought BYU Steve Sarkisian and Jonathan Pittman, there is Chris Solomona (6-5, 285), who signed with Washington out of high school and will visit Seattle on Dec. 14. He has signed on for a visit to BYU on Jan. 18 after he trips to Arizona in December. He is also being recruited by Kansas State and Oregon."
 

BYU Football Reaches Top 10 (New York Times)
See: http://www.nytimes.com/2001/11/05/sports/ncaafootball/05BLIP.html

"LaVell Edwards, who was known as an offense-minded coach, relinquished his 29-year hold on the Brigham Young job after last season. Enter Gary Crowton, who is making Edwards look as if he had run the single wing.

"Crowton, the 44-year-old former Chicago Bears offensive coordinator and Louisiana Tech head coach, has considerably expanded the Cougars' playbook. They now have 100-plus plays they can run from 23 formations.

"Nobody has been able to throttle the B.Y.U. offense as the Cougars have begun the season 9-0. They are averaging 50.8 points a game, which is first nationally, and 550.1 yards a game, which is second. "I've got more versatility with the athletes here than I've ever had," Crowton said. "It's given me as a play-caller the opportunity to hit different areas."
 

Other Articles featured at CougarFan.com
See:  http://CougarFan.com


 
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------------------------------------------------------------------------------- From: "CougarFan.com" Subject: FB Pre-Game: Wyoming -- Saturday 1:00 p.m. MST Date: 09 Nov 2001 16:16:39 -0700  
CougarFan.com FB Pre-Game:  Wyoming -- Saturday 1:00 p.m. MST

 
Quick Facts
Team Wyoming Cowboys
Location Laramie, WY
Day Saturday, 11/10/2001
Time 1:00 p.m. MST
TV ESPN Regional-KJZZ
Internet Radio  http://www.ksl.com/radio/listen/listen.php
Records BYU 9-0 (5-0), Wyoming 2-6 (0-5)
Last Meeting 2000:  BYU 19, Wyoming 7
Weather Partly cloudy : high 53, low 29
Latest Line BYU by 23.5 points

 
Game Overview

The BYU-Wyoming matchup can be summarized in two statements:

1. Where Wyoming is strong, BYU is stronger.  Example: Wyoming is 16th in the nation in passing offense; BYU is 11th.

2. Where BYU is weak, Wyoming is weaker.  Example: BYU is 110th (out of 117) in rush defense; Wyoming is 113th.

Statistically, this contest looks to be over about half-way through the first quarter.

However, the BYU-Wyoming rivalry pre-dates most of its fans (you'd have to be at least 79 to have seen the first meeting) and there have been a few memorable upsets along the way.  In 1999, BYU went to Laramie ranked #13 and left with a 31-17 loss.  However, since that win, Wyoming has only one conference win in the last two seasons.
 
 
Players to Watch

BYU

#6 Luke Staley (RB) & #11 Brandon Doman (QB) --  Expect to see option left, option right, sweep left, sweep right.  Wyoming hasn't been able to stop anyone's running game, so a big day should be in store for BYU's dynamic ground duo.
Cougar DBs --  Like Tulane and Utah State, Wyoming will test the BYU secondary.  With teams being able to run so well on BYU recently, the secondary has had time off.  Not this week.

Wyoming

#14 Casey Bramlet (QB) -- He's leads the MWC, averaging 279.9 yards passing per game.
# 85 Ryan McGuffey (WR) -- He leads the league, averaging 7.6 receptions per game.
#50 Leo Caires (LB) -- If Wyoming has any prayer of stopping BYU's running game, Caires will have to plug the holes.  He ranks third in the MWC with an average 9.2 tackles per contest.
 
 
Records to Watch

BYU is on pace to set a team record for the highest average points per game in a season.  The 1980 team holds the record with 46.6 points/game.  The current team is averaging 50.8 points per game.  The NCAA record for total scoring in a season is 624 points.  BYU is on pace for 660 points this year.  And, of course, BYU holds an ongoing NCAA record of 333 consecutive games without being shut out.

Luke Staley now holds 5 BYU records and could come close to eclipsing another this Saturday.  He needs only 294 yards to become the BYU single-season rushing leader.  He is also 967 yards from becoming the BYU career rushing leader.  14 more touchdowns will give him the record for all-time scoring at BYU.

Gary Crowton is the only coach to start his tenure at BYU by winning more than his first two games.  He can go to 10-0 this weekend.
 
 
Statistics

Team Statistics (National Ranking, Statistic)
 
 
BYU
Wyoming
Category
Rank 
Stat
Rank 
Stat
Total Offense (yds/g)
 2
 550.1
 53
 384.1
Total Defense (yds/g)
 92
 427.3
 107
  470.1
Scoring Offense (pts/g)
 1
50.8
 91
20.6
Scoring Defense (pts/g)
 66
25.7
 94
32.8
Rushing Offense (yds/g)
 6
 241.0
 103
 99.6
Rushing Defense (yds/g)
 110
 232.0
 113
 254.3
Passing Offense (yds/g)
11
 309.1
 16
 284.5
Passing Defense (yds/g)
 37
 195.3
 66
 215.9
Passing Defense (efficiency)
20
 103.8
 94
137.6
Turnover Margin
 3
1.44
 69
-0.13
Punt Returns (yds/ret)
 65
 9.2
 108
4.9
Kickoff Returns (yds/ret)
23
23.3
 101
17.7
Net Punting (yds/punt)
 52
35.8
 42
36.7

Individual Statistics - Players in the Top 50 Nationally
 
 Category  Player
Rank
 Statistic
BYU
Rushing Luke Staley
 4
  136.5 yds/g
Passing Efficiency  Brandon Doman
2
  168.2 rating
Total Offense Brandon Doman
 5
  313.9 yds/g
Receptions Reno Mahe
 25
  6.1 rec/g
Receiving Yards Reno Mahe
46
  72.7 yds/g
Interceptions  Jernaro Gilford
 13
  0.6 ints/g
Kickoff Returns Mike Rigell
33
  25.0 yds/ret
Scoring Luke Staley
 1
  16.5 pts/g
Matt Payne
29
  8.2 pts/g
All-Purpose Yds Luke Staley
9
 161.1 yds/g
Wyoming
Total Offense Casey Bramlet
15
  275.3 yds/g
Receptions Ryan McGurffey
4
  7.7 rec/g
Receiving Yards Ryan McGurffey
30
  82.8 yds/g
Malcom Floyd
36
  77.4 yds/g
Interceptions Eric Lee
44
  .38 ints/g
Punting Luke Donovan
36
  42.3 yds/p
Field Goals Jarvis Wallum
1
  2.3 fgs/g
Scoring Jarvis Wallum
30
  8.1 pts/g

Hypothetical Game
(If the the teams played an exactly average game)
 
BYU
Wyoming
Score
42
23
Total Offense (yds)
510
406
Rushing Offense (yds)
248
166
Passing Offense (yds)
  262
240
Turnovers
1
 2

Fan Picks from the Football Challenge

97% of you picked BYU to win this week.
The average score was BYU 41, Wyoming 16.
.
 
National Rankings

BYU and Opponents
 
 AP
Coaches
BCS*
 Result
BYU
9
9
13
 -
Tulane
-
-
99
 W: 70-35
Nevada
-
-
89
 W: 52-7
Cal
-
-
91
 W: 44-16
UNLV
-
-
81
 W: 35-31
Utah State
-
-
85
 W: 54-34
New Mexico
-
-
65
 W: 24-20
Air Force
-
-
67
 W: 63-33
SDSU
-
-
94
 W: 59-21
Colorado St.
-
-
56
 W: 56-34
Wyoming
-
-
96
 Sat, Nov 10
Utah
-
-
36
 Sat, Nov 17
Mississippi St.
-
-
73
 Sat, Dec 1
Hawaii
-
-
40
 Sat, Dec 8

* BCS = Bowl Championship Series, a composite ranking including the other polls mentioned here.  This ranking is used to determine the #1 versus #2 bowl matchups.
 
 
Go Cougs!

 

Copyright 1999-2001, CougarFan.com

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------------------------------------------------------------------------------- From: "CougarFan.com" Subject: FB Pre-Game: Utah -- Saturday 5:00 p.m. MST Date: 16 Nov 2001 11:29:04 -0700  
CougarFan.com FB Pre-Game:  Utah -- Saturday 5:00 p.m. MST

 
Quick Facts
Team University of Utah Utes
Location Provo, UT
Day Saturday, 11/17/2001
Time 5:00 p.m. MST
TV ESPN2
Internet Radio  http://www.ksl.com/radio/listen/listen.php
Records BYU 10-0 (6-0), Utah 7-2 (4-1)
Last Meeting 2000:  BYU 34, Utah 27
Weather Sunny : high 55, low 32
Latest Line BYU by 7 points

 
Game Overview

BYU makes its final home stand of the 2001 season in a game that's being played for all the marbles.  Unlike last year, there's a lot more riding on this game than pride, and the players on both sides know it.  With BYU undefeated, this is one of the most important meetings between these two teams in the history of their rivalry.  The Cougars hope to keep working their offensive magic against a tough Utah defense, and will probably have to do it without the help of leading receiver Reno Mahe, who had his appendix removed this week.

The much-maligned Cougar defense will also face a tough opponent, as Utah has a powerful rushing attack that ranks 19th in the nation.  Key members of the defensive line are feeling healthier than they have been, and their best efforts will be needed to keep Utah from chewing up yards and time on the clock.

Utah is facing a great opportunity to make a national statement and probably get themselves ranked if they can win or even stay in a close game with the Y.  While the Utes are a much stronger running team than passing, they are well enough balanced to keep defenses honest.  They have a capable quarterback in Lance Rice, and some speedy receivers to complement their powerful running backs.  Utah will do its best to play ball control offense, believing that if they can keep the ball out of the Cougar offense's hands, they can get their fifth straight win in Provo.

The U's defense is probably the toughest that BYU will face this year, but one of the reasons that it is so much better than the others in the Mountain West is that it's the only team that hasn't faced BYU's offense yet.  Coach McBride hopes that his defensive statistics don't plummet after tomorrow's game.
 
 
Implications

BYU can lock up a conference championship, a Liberty Bowl bid, instate bragging rights for the next year, their longest win streak in a decade and a half, home bragging rights over their biggest rival, etc. etc. etc. with a win over Utah.  A loss to the Utes would be the cruelest way possible to see this current run end.

Utah can get a piece of the conference championship by closing out their season with wins over BYU and Air Force.  The Utes would also love to be the team to derail the Y's perfect season.
 
 
Players to Watch

BYU

#6, Luke Staley (RB) -- It's his turn to go up against a defense that only allows opposing offenses 97.4 rushing yards per game.

#11, Brandon Doman (QB) -- This game is a little more special to the Domanator than the rest.  A Utah native, he feels the rivalry as intensely as anybody, especially after last year's gutty come-from-behind win.  His good instincts, measured by a nation-leading 24/4 touchdown to interception ratio, will be important as he faces a tough defense and is forced to make good decisions quickly.

#47, Paul Walkenhorst (LB) -- A team leader statistically and out on the field, he makes things happen in pressure situations.

#79, Dustin Rykert (OL) -- He and his fellow linemates enjoy the job of opening holes for Luke Staley.  He's also done a tremendous job of protecting his quarterback, and was named a mid-season All-American tackle.

Utah

#1, Cliff Russell (WR) -- This guy's got speed and then some -- he runs a 4.27 second 40-yard dash, and is believed to be the fastest athlete ever at Utah.  His vertical jump of 41" is the best on the team.  As a sophomore in 1999's game, he burned the Y for a 70-yard touchdown reception.  Fellow receiver Josh Lyman is another big target for the U.

#16, Lance Rice (QB) -- Last year, he was a scared little freshman forced into action because of the ineffectiveness of Utah's two top signal callers.  This season, Rice (grandson of U of U donor Bob Rice, as in Rice-Eccles Stadium) is the second best passer in the MWC (behind Brandon Doman).  Like Doman, Rice is a returned missionary, marking the first time that we can think of that two RM quarterbacks have led these two teams into battle against each other.

#17, Arnold Parker (S) -- He's the one who started talking smack last Saturday after the U's win over San Diego State.  Both he and fellow safety Antwoine Sanders put together a good combination of speed, size, strength, and jumping ability.  The two together are known as "A.S.A.P.", and they do get to the ball in a hurry.  Parker runs a 4.32 second 40.

#28, Dameon Hunter (RB) -- He ranks third in the MWC and 16th in the nation with 118.2 yards per game.  At 5'11", 223 pounds, he's not easy to bring down.  His backup, Adam Tate, isn't far behind in talent or speed.
 
 
Records to Watch

BYU holds an ongoing NCAA record of 334 consecutive games without being shut out.

Gary Crowton is the only coach to open his BYU career at better than 2-0.  He can improve to 11-0 on Saturday.

Luke Staley currently sits at third on BYU's single-season rushing list with 1,264 yards this year.  He needs 44 yards to overtake second-place Ronney Jenkins (1998), and 125 yards to surpass Pete Van Valkenburg (1972) and claim the top spot on the list.

Luke Staley can add to several school records he already holds, including single-season touchdowns (26), career touchdowns (46), single-season scoring (156 points), and career scoring for non-kickers (276).
 
 
Injury Report

BYU

Brett Carlson (LB) -- This special teamer broke his thumb against Wyoming, but will be out on the field as usual.

Brett Keisel (DE) -- His ankle is still bothering him, and a thigh bruise that's keeping him from bending his leg all the way was added to his injury list last Saturday, but Coach Crowton lists him at 85%, which is better than he has been for weeks.

Reno Mahe (WR) -- After undergoing an emergency appendectomy last Sunday, he's doubtful for tomorrow's game.  He's tough, though, and may be able to get back on the field this week.

Jason Scukanec (C) -- He will come back and play on his torn MCL again.

Rod Wilkerson (WR) -- Now that his knee injury has held him out of three straight games, he should get back into action against the Utes.
 
 
Statistics

Team Statistics (National Ranking, Statistic)
 
 
BYU
Utah
Category
Rank 
Stat
Rank 
Stat
Total Offense (yds/g)
 2
 546.6
 29
 424.0
Total Defense (yds/g)
 91
 432.2
 13
  296.2
Scoring Offense (pts/g)
 1
49.8
 38
29.0
Scoring Defense (pts/g)
 70
26.5
 9
15.9
Rushing Offense (yds/g)
 7
 241.6
 19
 206.4
Rushing Defense (yds/g)
 107
 220.6
 14
 97.4
Passing Offense (yds/g)
11
 305.0
 61
 217.6
Passing Defense (yds/g)
 51
 211.6
 38
 198.8
Passing Defense (efficiency)
19
 104.2
 18
104.1
Turnover Margin
 11
+1.0
 33
+0.44
Punt Returns (yds/ret)
 63
 9.3
 64
9.3
Kickoff Returns (yds/ret)
25
23.0
 78
19.2
Net Punting (yds/punt)
 54
35.6
 56
35.5

Individual Statistics - Players in the Top 50 Nationally
 
 Category  Player
Rank
 Statistic
BYU
Rushing Luke Staley
 4
  140.4 yds/g
Passing Efficiency  Brandon Doman
5
  162.6 rating
Total Offense Brandon Doman
 6
  312.6 yds/g
Receptions Reno Mahe
 25
  6.2 rec/g
Receiving Yards Reno Mahe
43
  74.7 yds/g
Interceptions  Jernaro Gilford
 16
  0.5 ints/g
Kickoff Returns Mike Rigell
31
  25.7 yds/ret
Scoring Luke Staley
 1
  17.3 pts/g
Matt Payne
23
  8.5 pts/g
All-Purpose Yds Luke Staley
7
 164.8 yds/g
Utah
Rushing Dameon Hunter
16
  118.2 yds/g
Pass Efficiency Lance Rice
46
  128.9 rating
Interceptions Antwoine Sanders
25
  .4 ints/g
Punt Returns Morgan Scalley
47
  10.3 yds/ret
All-Purpose Yds Dameon Hunter
35
  122.7 yds/g

Hypothetical Game
(If the the teams played an exactly average game)
 
BYU
Utah
Score
33
28
Total Offense (yds)
422
429
Rushing Offense (yds)
170
214
Passing Offense (yds)
  252
215
Turnovers
2
 3

Fan Picks from the Football Challenge

95% of you picked BYU to win this week.
The average score was BYU 37, Utah 23.
.
 
National Rankings

BYU and Opponents
 
 AP
Coaches
BCS*
 Result
BYU
8
8
13
 -
Tulane
-
-
101
 W: 70-35
Nevada
-
-
98
 W: 52-7
Cal
-
-
91
 W: 44-16
UNLV
-
-
85
 W: 35-31
Utah State
-
-
86
 W: 54-34
New Mexico
-
-
61
 W: 24-20
Air Force
-
-
73
 W: 63-33
SDSU
-
-
93
 W: 59-21
Colorado St.
-
-
57
 W: 56-34
Wyoming
-
-
90
 W: 41-34
Utah
-
-
34
 Sat, Nov 17
Mississippi St.
-
-
76
 Sat, Dec 1
Hawaii
-
-
65
 Sat, Dec 8

* BCS = Bowl Championship Series, a composite ranking including the other polls mentioned here.  This ranking is used to determine the #1 versus #2 bowl matchups.
 
 
Go Cougs!

 

Copyright 1999-2001, CougarFan.com

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------------------------------------------------------------------------------- From: "CougarFan.com" Subject: News Recap - Christmas Blues, Young on BCS, Staley=Doak? Date: 28 Nov 2001 09:11:53 -0700 CougarFan.comNews Recap - Christmas, Young on BCS, Staley=Doak?

Selected articles included here. See all the latest news at:  http://CougarFan.com

Christmas Blues (CougarFan.com)
See:  http://CougarFan.com/store/

Don't miss the chance to give BYU gifts this Christmas. At the CougarFan.com store, we have sweatshirts, hats, helmets, rubber duckies, and a lot more stuff you never knew existed in BYU blue.

Visit http://CougarFan.com/store/ today!
 

Young wants BYU to get shot at BCS bowl (The Sporting News)
See: http://www.sportingnews.com/voices/jeff_dalessio/20011128.html

Steve Young was interviewed by the Sporting News and answers questions about BYU and the BCS, Brandon Doman, and much more.  Here's a quote, but don't miss the rest of the article:

"If you're a Division I school, there's got to be some way to reward a spectacular season. At least test it, you know? That's the flaw in the BCS. In some ways, it's a closed shop -- and they've got to figure that out. If they played Nebraska every week, would they be undefeated? Probably not. But let's give it a look. Let's have a shot at figuring it out. Keeping them out and not letting them have an opportunity to prove their worth, it's a flaw. They've got to fix that."
 

Staley Named Finalist for Doak Walker Award (Provo Daily Herald)
See: http://www.harktheherald.com/article.php?sid=31734

"As expected, BYU junior running back Luke Staley is a finalist for the 2001 Doak Walker Award, which honors college football's best running back.  The SMU Athletic Forum board of directors announced Monday that Staley, Maryland's Bruce Perry and Tennessee's Travis Stephens are the finalists for the award."
 

Hansen Spurring Men's Basketball to Early Success (Salt Lake Tribune)
See: http://www.sltrib.com/2001/nov/11282001/sports/152897.htm

"For Brigham Young to defy its sixth-place Mountain West projection, Steve Cleveland knew one of his veterans had to take over the leadership of the Cougars. He just might have been looking at the wrong guy.  Sure, senior Eric Nielsen is a more assertive scorer. But after two games, it's junior guard Travis Hansen who has undergone a basketball makeover."
 

Volleyball Faces Utah State Thursday in NCAA (Press Release)
See: http://www.byucougars.com/volleyball_w/releases/20011127_wvlb_rel.html

"The 19th-ranked BYU Cougars enter the 2001 NCAA Volleyball Championship on the road for the first time since 1984. BYU (20-8) will play in Salt Lake City and face Utah State (19-10) in a first-round match Thursday at 6 p.m."
 

Most Popular Articles in Last 5 Days (in case you missed them)
See:  http://CougarFan.com/#popular

11/26/2001 BCS Is Child's Play (Dallas Morning News)
11/25/2001 Football Team Ranked 7th, 10th (CougarFan.com)
11/27/2001 We Don't Need Computers to Tell Us Who's #1 (Wichita Eagle)
11/24/2001 Rewarding, yet Frustrating Season for BYU (Nando Times)
11/25/2001 Gary Crowton: Long Journey Home (Salt Lake Tribune)
 

Other Articles featured at CougarFan.com
See:  http://CougarFan.com

  • Christmas Blues (CougarFan.com)
  • Bulldog Seniors Want to Go Out with Win (Starkville Daily News)
  • Receivers Step Out of Shadows (Clarion-Ledger)
  • Cougars Not Out of BCS Hunt (Provo Daily Herald)
  • Sherrill: Dogs Will Face Rough Tactics (Clarion-Ledger)
  • Defensive End's Last MSU Appearance (Biloxi Sun Herald)
  • Chad Lewis to Face Former Coach (Philadelphia Inquirer)
  • Cougars Put Perfect Mark on the Line (Standard-Examiner)
  • BYU Searching for Depth (Provo Daily Herald)
  • Women Drop Game to UCLA in Hoops Action (BYUCougars.com)
  • Volleyball Faces Utah State Thursday in NCAA (Press Release)
  • Cramer a Leader for Women's Soccer (BYU NewsNet)

 
Copyright 1999-2001, CougarFan.com

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------------------------------------------------------------------------------- From: "CougarFan.com" Subject: FB Pre-Game: Mississippi State -- Saturday 6:00 p.m. MST Date: 30 Nov 2001 16:07:24 -0700  
CougarFan.com FB Pre-Game:  Mississippi State -- Saturday 6:00 p.m. MST

 
Quick Facts
Team Mississippi State University Bulldogs
Location Starkville, MS
Day Saturday, 12/1/2001
Time 6:00 p.m. MST
TV ESPN2
Internet Radio  http://www.ksl.com/radio/listen/listen.php
Records BYU 11-0, Mississippi State 3-7
Last Meeting 2000:  Mississippi State 44, BYU 28
Weather Sunny : high 65, low 39
Latest Line BYU by 4 points

 
Game Overview

BYU is possibly the first 11-0 team going up against a 3-7 team that is expected to lose by many people.  Sports forecasters far and wide have been pointing to this game as a good chance for an upset, even though on paper it looks like it should be a cakewalk for the Cougars.  The reason?  Well, there are a few, but we'll get to those.  Although this is only the second meeting between the schools, there is a bit of history between the two squads.  Gary Crowton is well acquainted with Starkville, having led his team to an upset there while coaching at Louisiana Tech.  Legend has it that MSU head coach Jackie Sherrill sent the state troopers after the LaTech team buses to ticket them for speeding on their way home from the game (now you're starting to see how seriously they take football in the South. . .).  Sherrill, one of the winningest active coaches in the country, has faced BYU before his time at MSU.  He was an assistant at Iowa State during two wins over the Cougars in the late sixties.

The Cougar defense has taken a lot of abuse from just about everybody this year, but has repeatedly risen to the occasion during cruch situations.  In fact, the argument could be made that BYU's last two games were won by the defense.  So far this year, the Cougar D has recorded at least one interception in each and every game, including Jernaro Gilford's heroic game-sealer against Utah, his sixth on the season.  His goal at the beginning of the year was seven, so hopefully he makes it tomorrow.

Mississippi State Okay, now for the reasons that BYU's not expected to stomp the Bulldogs:  First of all, Mississippi State has history on its side.  The game will be played in the unfriendly confines of Davis-Wade Stadium at Scott Field, the second-oldest Division-I stadium in the country, where cowbell-ringing fans can make life difficult for visiting opponents.  BYU has yet to beat an SEC team, going 0-for-3 so far with losses to Georgia, Alabama, and last year's game vs. the Bulldogs.  Also, four of MSU's losses this season have been close ones that could have gone either way.  But perhaps the biggest reason that the Y is only favored by four points is because of MSU's improved play as of late.  Last week, they looked like the team they were expected to be at the beginning of the season as they romped formerly ranked Mississippi and forced Rebel QB Eli Manning into throwing three interceptions in the fourth quarter.  MSU's quarterback Wayne Madkin, who holds the school passing record, was sidelined by a broken toe two weeks ago, and his backup, Kevin Fant, seems to have re-energized the team.  Though not as athletic and quick as Madkin, Fant has a rifle for an arm and is an accurate passer.

The Mississippi State defense has been a storied unit since defensive coordinator Joe Lee Dunn came to Starkville in 1996.  Since coaching at New Mexico in the eighties, Dunn has been an SEC man, and has made a name for himself as a defensive genius.  His defensive unit was the difference in last year's game in Provo, causing key turnovers at crucial points of the game.  Last week, cornerback Korey Banks was the SEC player of the week as he had two interceptions that led to Bulldog scores.
 
 
Implications

BYU needs a win this week and next if it is going to even dream of going to a BCS bowl.  This is a great chance to play a prime-time game in front of a national audience, showcasing Doak Walker award candidate Luke Staley against a respected team.  Most importantly, the Cougs want to show that they belong among the nation's elite.

Mississippi State would like to exorcise the demons of a losing season by going out on a two-game win streak.  The chance to play spoiler against the Cougs looms large, and the Bulldogs would love to be the team to put the supposed upstart Cougars back in their place, on the outside of the BCS looking in.
 
 
Players to Watch

BYU

#7, Levi Madarieta (S) -- His ability to close on the ball and deliver big hits will be needed against a revitalized Bulldog offense.

#8, Mike Rigell (WR) -- Besides his pass catching duties, protecting the ball during punt returns could prove to be huge.

#11, Brandon Doman (QB) -- His decision making skills will be put to the test against an agressive, blitzing defense.  His pass accuracy will be key to moving the chains against the 'Dawg D.

#55, Justin Ena (LB) -- Following his best game of the year, this senior defensive leader is expected to step up to the challenge of MSU's bruising rushing attack.

Mississippi State

#3, Dontae Walker (RB) -- This high school All-America first teamer scored three touchdowns against Ole Miss on Thanksgiving Day.

#12, Dicenzo Miller (RB) -- A shifty tailback that's quick to hit the hole, Miller is a senior team leader.  One of his two scores against BYU last year was a dump pass that he turned into a highlight reel play, bouncing off nearly every Cougar defender on his way to a 78-yard touchdown.

#29, Pig Prather (S) -- Though he hasn't received much attention in this down year for MSU, he's one of the top safeties in the nation (actually, he's listed as a "dog" back).  He has a nose for the ball and can deliver a vicious hit.

#98, Mario Haggan (LB) -- This big, quick junior was named a second team All-American last season after registering 132 tackles.  He absolutely dominated last year's game against the Cougars, and was the one who knocked the ball out of Charlie Peterson's hands into the end zone for a Bulldog score.
 
 
Records to Watch

BYU holds an ongoing NCAA record of 335 consecutive games without being shut out.

BYU can go 12-0 for the only time besides 1984, when they finished the season 13-0 and were crowned national champions.

Luke Staley can add to his various school records, including single season rushing (1,433 yards), single-season touchdowns (28), career touchdowns (48), single season scoring (170 points), and career scoring for non-kickers (290 points).  Luke is also climbing the ladder on the BYU career rushing list.  His 2,334 yards places him in 6th place -- 29 yards behind #5 John Ogden (1964-66) and 158 yards behind #6 Pete Van Valkenburg (1970-72).

Brandon Doman can become the first BYU quarterback since Robbie Bosco to win his first 14 games as the starter (Bosco went 13-0 in 1984, then won his season opener in 1985).
 
 
Injury Report

BYU

Jernaro Gilford (CB) -- His suffered a sprained MCL and bruised leg against Utah, but a week's rest went a long way in rehabilitating him.  He should be close to 100% for the game.

Jason Scukanec (C) -- The oft-quoted lineman has been suffering from bronchitis this week, but finally got to practice yesterday.  He will hopefully be ready to play.
 
 
Statistics

Team Statistics (National Ranking, Statistic)
 
 
BYU
MSU
Category
Rank 
Stat
Rank 
Stat
Total Offense (yds/g)
 2
 537.8
 96
 327.3
Total Defense (yds/g)
 91
 425.4
 43
  355.7
Scoring Offense (pts/g)
 1
47.5
 113
15.8
Scoring Defense (pts/g)
 62
26.0
 55
24.7
Rushing Offense (yds/g)
 8
 236.0
 82
 125.5
Rushing Defense (yds/g)
 105
 215.8
 66
 158.7
Passing Offense (yds/g)
10
 301.8
 74
 201.8
Passing Defense (yds/g)
 47
 209.5
 35
 197.0
Passing Defense (efficiency)
16
 104.1
 69
123.8
Turnover Margin
 15
+0.91
 86
-0.50
Punt Returns (yds/ret)
 74
 8.7
 66
9.1
Kickoff Returns (yds/ret)
26
22.6
 69
19.9
Net Punting (yds/punt)
 40
36.5
 68
34.8

Individual Statistics - Players in the Top 50 Nationally
 
 Category  Player
Rank
 Statistic
BYU
Rushing Luke Staley
 2
  143.3 yds/g
Passing Efficiency  Brandon Doman
6
  156.8 rating
Total Offense Brandon Doman
 7
  308.9 yds/g
Receptions Reno Mahe
 20
  6.1 rec/g
Receiving Yards Reno Mahe
40
  76.5 yds/g
Interceptions  Jernaro Gilford
 8
  0.6 ints/g
Kickoff Returns Mike Rigell
26
  25.0 yds/ret
Scoring Luke Staley
 1
  17.0 pts/g
Matt Payne
29
  8.1 pts/g
All-Purpose Yds Luke Staley
6
 167.7 yds/g
MSU
Punting Jared Cook
50
  40.8 yds/p

Hypothetical Game
(If the the teams played an exactly average game)
 
BYU
MSU
Score
36
21
Total Offense (yds)
447
376
Rushing Offense (yds)
197
171
Passing Offense (yds)
  249
206
Turnovers
1
3

Fan Picks from the Football Challenge

77% of you picked BYU to win this week.
The average score was BYU 32, MSU 24.
 
 
National Rankings

BYU and Opponents
 
 AP
Coaches
BCS*
 Result
BYU
10
7
12
 -
Tulane
-
-
100
 W: 70-35
Nevada
-
-
96
 W: 52-7
Cal
-
-
89
 W: 44-16
UNLV
-
-
78
 W: 35-31
Utah State
-
-
93
 W: 54-34
New Mexico
-
-
66
 W: 24-20
Air Force
-
-
86
 W: 63-33
SDSU
-
-
90
 W: 59-21
Colorado St.
-
-
48
 W: 56-34
Wyoming
-
-
101
 W: 41-34
Utah
32
31
30
 W: 24-21
Mississippi St.
-
-
65
 Sat, Dec 1
Hawaii
-
-
59
 Sat, Dec 8

* BCS = Bowl Championship Series, a composite ranking including the other polls mentioned here.  This ranking is used to determine the #1 versus #2 bowl matchups.
 
 
Go Cougs!

 
 

Copyright 1999-2001, CougarFan.com

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