Estimated read time: 3-4 minutes
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PROVO -- BYU scored another big win over a WAC opponent this past weekend, but didn't score many headlines. It's hard pressed to find a story about Cougar football outside of Utah that includes information about this year's team and nothing about conference expansion.
However, BYU's new independence voyage has done its job and increased broadcasting coverage that continues to grow across the nation. John Ahlander 10 things BYU should demand from the Big East if it is to leave independence.
However, it now appears such a move is not going to happen. The Associated Press is reporting BYU and the Big East have broken off talks. The reason for the end of negotiations appears to be television rights.
Despite a strong performance by Jake Heaps and winning the Independent offensive player of the week award fans still seem skeptical about having Heaps under center. Kelly Martinez at Examiner.com explains that being named player of the week out of four teams isn't a big deal.
"If the four independents were a conference, which is what this type of award appears to be imitating, giving an award for performance compared to three other teams is kind of humorous, especially when the "conference" includes Army and Navy. This award is basically the same as a player of the game award."
However, the people at Blue Cougar Football lists seven things Heaps did that he deserves credit for for his performance against New Mexico State. His numbers were good enough to get the win but don't show a number of small things he did in the victory. Blue Cougar Football lists seven things Heaps did that he deserves credit for but will mostly likely go unheralded. Here are a few of them.
• He led BYU to a score on its first possession.
• He directed two touchdown drives 80 yards or longer.
• He evaded a heavy rush and made a great pass to JD Falslev for a touchdown.
• He helped BYU convert 71.4 percent of 14 third downs.
The BYU Sports Guy reflects on the quarterback situation sitting in front of Cougar coaches once Riley Nelson gets healthy this season and heading into next year. With all of the negative criticism surrounding the position battle and the pressure piled on Heaps, the BYU Sports Guy says he has nothing to be ashamed of and that the program is still headed in the right direction.
"Basically, we have Riley Nelson's toughness, maturity, running ability, and attention to detail against the arm, playmaking, and potential of Jake Heaps. There will be a time for Jake Heaps to shine. We thought it was this year, but it wasn't to be. There is no sin in that, nor is there any reason for Jake Heaps to hang his head. He is young, and was beaten out by an older player."
"Both Jake Heaps and Riley Nelson have represented BYU and the LDS in a way of which everyone can be proud. In other words, the program is in great hands, no matter who starts and who sits on the bench."
One player BYU coaches haven't been able to keep on the bench is Joe Sampson. Brett Richins at DeepShadesofBlue.com gives an overview Sampson's journey to BYU was helped by his cousin and former BYU cornerback Brian Logan. His ability to play both corner and safety has quickly benefited the defense.
"What you guys are seeing now is just a glimpse of his skill set and ability. I think that a lot more can come from him and I think you will see more as he becomes a true safety."
