BYU Wins (Twice?) vs. Utah State, 34-14

With a top ten ranking, BYU was expected to easily handle the Utah State Aggies in Logan on Friday night.  In a way, this did happen, with BYU going up 24-0 in the first quarter, and extended to 34-0 by the fourth quarter before allowing two late TDs by Utah State (ending our consecutive shutout streak at 11 quarters--the longest in 70 years).  The outcome of the game was never in doubt. 

However, were we sharp mentally and physically?  No.  The defense for the most part was, though they did seem to make errors late in the game.  But the offense seemed a little sluggish and out-of-synch for most of the night.  The defense scored 2 of our touchdowns, so our offense both in terms of yards and points had its worst outing of the year so far.  

So, we won.  But could we get two wins out of this?  It depends on how we respond and play next week.  I think human nature, even with high-character people, makes it very very difficult to sustain success without a hitch.  Sometimes you have to struggle to stay sharp.  If this sharpens us back up going back to conference play and the remainder of the year, then I think we will have had a double-win out of this game.

Regardless, as several of us had a chance to go to the game, it was really a fun game to watch and be at.  Beautiful night in Cache Valley and a win by the Cougs!