Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
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Bronco Mendenhall previewed the latest installment of a rivalry series the coach said he hopes is played every year, as he met the media this morning at Legends Grille.
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You can hear all of Bronco's podium comments, and the group interviews with Coleby Clawson, Jan Jorgensen, R.J. Willing and Andrew George by clicking their respective audio links in the "Cougar Cuts" box to the right.
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Bronco revealed that BYU could be without DE Vic So'oto for the Utah State game. The coach says So'oto broke a finger versus Florida State, and while he played through the injury last week, the injury will require surgery that could come as soon as tomorrow. Bronco says after the surgery, So'oto will be fitted with a modified cast, and that he "if all goes well, he'll miss one week."
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Back to the BYU-Utah State rivalry, Bronco reiterated that he likes playing the Aggies every year, noting the "competitive spirit" of the series, and expressing his desire to declare a "state champion" between BYU, Utah and Utah State.
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The coach talked about the strongside linebacker rotation, indicating that the week of practice will often determine which of Jordan Pendleton and Grant Nelson will start. Each player has started two games thus far.
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Bronco said he is "comfortable with" and "confident in" QB Max Hall. Referencing any attention on Hall's eight interceptions, Mendenhall alluded to CB Brian Logan, noting a player who may be currently criticized for plays not being made, while reminding all that you cannot overlook all the plays being made, by both Hall and Logan, for example. Bronco says Hall has made "tremendous progress" in leadership and in moving the offense.
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Bronco describes Utah State as "explosive," on both offense and defense. Mendenhall is familiar with Aggies' offensive coordinator Dave Baldwin, who occupied the same post under Rocky Long at New Mexico. Of course, there is familiarity with USU head coach Gary Andersen from his days as defensive coordinator at Utah.
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