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PROVO — No team ever wants to replace a starting quarterback midway through the year, but that’s the hand the BYU has been dealt.
Now after two straight losses, the Cougars face the back half of what many thought could have been an undefeated season, and they are having to redefine who they are and what could still make this season special.
“We’re gonna go 10-2 and win the bowl game. I mean, that’s still a great season,” senior wide receiver Jordan Leslie said. “A lot of people expected us to go undefeated and they kind of see it as a letdown, but we’re trying to win every game, and 10-2 is a great record at any other school and it should be a great record here.”
BYU’s offense struggled in the first half last week, putting up just three points in the first 30 minutes. The second half saw a different Cougar offense and a more confident Christian Stewart, but it wasn’t enough to overcome a late UCF comeback. The Cougars fell 31-24 in overtime Oct. 9.
“It’s clear we’re a rhythm offense, and when we’re in rhythm, it's very explosive,” BYU offensive Coordinator Robert Anae said. “When we’re not in rhythm…it's too many three-and-outs. I do believe from an offensive stand point from here forward simpler is probably better.”
Simplicity seemed to be the offensive word of the day. Sophomore wide receiver Colby Pearson said a simplified offensive will help the team focus more on specific assignments.
“We’re gonna simple things up,” Pearson said. “When you’re not thinking, you’re playing faster. So it’s just kinda take what the defense gives us and let’s move that ball.”
Pearson said many of the receivers have gone out of their way to set up extra film sessions together in preparation for Nevada. Several other players also expressed a greater urgency to step up and give Stewart more support as he settles into his starting role at quarterback.
“We’ve got to make it easier for Stew and make the harder catches,” Leslie said. “It’s our job to have the big-play impact.”
Quarterbacks coach Jason Beck said Stewart has an added confidence in practice with his first major start now in the books. He says the players surrounding Stewart are experienced and the offense as a whole has improved greatly since last season.
“With Stew coming in now, the offense as a unit is better and now it's just a matter of getting Stew reps,” Beck said. “He’s very capable, and he does some really good things. It’s just a matter of doing it on game day when everyone’s watching.
The Cougars will face Nevada in a late game at LaVell Edwards Stadium on Saturday. Anae said this game feels like just the second game of the season as the offense continues to reboot with Stewart.
“I am very excited about the resiliency and competitiveness that the group showed, especially on the road last week,” Anae said. “That’s what we’re hoping to take into our home stadium.”
Nevada’s defense is 103rd in the nation in total defense, allowing 462.5 yards per game, and that may give the Cougars a chance to build some offensive confidence. Anae, however, said the Wolf Pack defense is not one to take lightly.
“They’re very capable in all areas of how they defend the field,” Anae said. “So we’re looking for four quarters of all we’ve got.
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Injury Update: Anae said running back Jamaal Williams didn't practice Tuesday or Wednesday. His status for Saturday’s game is still unknown. Sydney is a KSL sports radio intern. You can follow her on twitter @sydneykayc
