Cougars are bowl bound following victory over NMSU

The game vs New Mexico state wasn't as easy as the 45-10 score would indicate. As Hunter Miller and I were sitting in the stands wrapped in blankets, thanks to the sub 30 degree weather, we saw some things that we both were not happy with, and I’m sure Cougar nation in general were not happy with.

A terrible -- and I mean terrible -- New Mexico State defense, who ranks 122nd in total defense and gives up an average of 6.12 yards per play and 490 yards per game, came out firing against BYU’s offense. Zach Wilson started 1-8 as that led to three three-and-outs in a row and the 47,000 fans in attendance were not confident in the Cougar's ability to move the ball, to say the least. After all, that has been the case for the BYU offense all season -- minus the Wisconsin and Hawaii game, where they came out swinging from the get go.

The Cougars started slow and lifeless as usual -- BYU has been outscored 39 to 60 all season in the first quarter. The slow start didn't last long as an interception from Malik Moore set up the Cougars in the Red Zone, giving the offense an opportunity to get going. While the Cougars offense was able to eventually get going en route to a 35-point victory, the slow start was concerning especially against a NMST defense that, let's face it, is the worst the Cougars have faced. Coach Kalani Sitake and the Cougars should spend much of the week focusing on getting off to quick start this week because if they come out flat against a Utah defense that ranks in the Top-25 nationally it could spell trouble for the Cougars.

There are, however, some positives from last night's game. With the 45-10 victory BYU is bowl eligible for the first time since 2016 after an abysmal 4-9 season last year. And that means one thing; progress. And that gives me some hope for the future of BYU football. Now I’m a realistic fan, and when I say I am excited for the future that doesn’t mean I expect a 12-0 or 9-2 season in the next season or two, but I am excited to see what Zach Wilson and these young group of guys will do in the future. And hey, maybe they will surprise us all! Another positive was the running game for the Cougars as BYU played great on offensive side of the ball from the 2nd quarter on. Senior Matt Hadley tallied 55 yards and 2 touchdowns, ending his career at Lavell Edwards Stadium with a bang. True Freshman Lopini Katoa had a career game with 155 yards and 4 touchdowns on the ground while true-freshman QB Zach Wilson threw for 172 yards to help BYU get the win.

It has not been confirmed yet where they will be playing in a Bowl game, however here are some bowl projections:

SERVPRO First Responders Bowl vs. North Texas on December 26th

Gildan New Mexico Bowl Vs. San Diego State on December 15th

Frisco Bowl vs. SMU on December 19th

Belk Bowl vs. Pitt on December 29th