BYU(-3.5) vs Georgia Tech
2* BYU -3.5
Some of the biggest factors here should be Georgia Tech introducing a freshman QB on the road in the season opener against a BYU defense that only allowed 173.3 yards per game last season. The Cougars return 10 starters on this unit, and that type of continuity should really stand out against such an inexperienced offense. The new 3-3-5 set implemented by Bronco Mendenhall should give opposing units a tough time with movement and blitzing schemes designed to confuse opponents. Offensively, BYU returns decent QB Berry and are solid both at WR and RB and they should have an improved line in front of them this year as they've recruited well here and moved a few guys around.
Tech is a mess as Chan Gailey is already on the hot seat. Gailey has decided to start true frosh Reggie Ball at QB, and they have no experienced wideouts or RB's. Additionally, Tech lost 10 players from last years team to academic suspensions (including expected starting running back Tony Hollings). Along with this setback, the Yellow Jackets have a very thin defensive front, no proven playmakers on offense, and a lot of inexperienced freshmen in the line up. A trip out West to play a good team in the altitude is probably too much to ask for them this early in the year.
Add in the home field advantage, the revenge factor (BYU lost to Georgia Tech last year 19-28), an improved and experienced defense, and a defining edge in the QB and special teams positions should spell a win and cover for the BYU Cougars.
2* BYU -3.5
Some of the biggest factors here should be Georgia Tech introducing a freshman QB on the road in the season opener against a BYU defense that only allowed 173.3 yards per game last season. The Cougars return 10 starters on this unit, and that type of continuity should really stand out against such an inexperienced offense. The new 3-3-5 set implemented by Bronco Mendenhall should give opposing units a tough time with movement and blitzing schemes designed to confuse opponents. Offensively, BYU returns decent QB Berry and are solid both at WR and RB and they should have an improved line in front of them this year as they've recruited well here and moved a few guys around.
Tech is a mess as Chan Gailey is already on the hot seat. Gailey has decided to start true frosh Reggie Ball at QB, and they have no experienced wideouts or RB's. Additionally, Tech lost 10 players from last years team to academic suspensions (including expected starting running back Tony Hollings). Along with this setback, the Yellow Jackets have a very thin defensive front, no proven playmakers on offense, and a lot of inexperienced freshmen in the line up. A trip out West to play a good team in the altitude is probably too much to ask for them this early in the year.
Add in the home field advantage, the revenge factor (BYU lost to Georgia Tech last year 19-28), an improved and experienced defense, and a defining edge in the QB and special teams positions should spell a win and cover for the BYU Cougars.
