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PROVO — Let's admit the obvious: It's kind of hard to predict the winner between BYU and Virginia because we really don't know a lot about either team due to off-season changes.
The Cougars have a new offense and so do the Cavaliers. In fact, the Wahoos have a whole new everything since they replaced their offensive and defensive coordinators. I guess the Cougars defense will be solid, if you don't take into consideration that the cornerbacks have very little experience. But the keys to a Cougar win this weekend are pretty obvious.
Make David Watford run
You may think I'm crazy to suggest that Virginia's athletic, yet inexperienced quarterback run instead of pass the ball. It could hide the inexperienced cornerbacks. If the Cougar linebackers and d-lineman force Watford out of the pocket, he won't feel comfortable and he probably isn't as accurate throwing the ball on the run.
Additionally, if you can contain Watford's running attempts to three yards or less, BYU should be okay. The Cougar defenders should also try and make the redshirt sophomore to throw long passes since the safeties would be there to help.
Play to your strengths
For the defense, that's letting Kyle Van Noy and the other linebackers make big plays. For the offense, that would be the run game. The Cougars have good running backs and a pretty good running quarterback. So let them run, run, run over a Cavaliers defense that allowed 145 yards a game on the ground last year.
Related:
A look back at the history between BYU and Virginia
BYU's meeting with Virginia on Saturday won't be the first. These two schools have a history that goes back to 1987.The offensive line has been criticized quite a bit and I'm not sure the starters right now will be the starters at the end of the season. So why not run the ball to boost their confidence. The lineman will be challenged with humidity and fitness in the new "go fast, go hard" offense. So let's make it easy on them by allowing them to run block. Let them smash the Cavs for a half and then make any adjustments at halftime.
Take the early lead
Playing on the road can give a team focus in the first game of the season. But that focus can be shattered if the Cavs put a touchdown on the board first. And if the lead increases, BYU's offense could become reckless. If the Cougars win the coin flip, they should take the ball first and take an early lead. Even if the Cougars only come away with a Justin Sorenson field goal, you at least give him some confidence because you show that you trust him to score.
Listen to Dave Matthews Band
DMB formed in Charlottesville, so it couldn't hurt. Then again, you may want to stay away from the song "Don't Drink the Water," it's kind of depressing.
