BYU football coaches are aiming for a full 60 minutes of top-tier play as the Cougars prepare to travel to face TCU this week, according to a September 30 report. Following three wins this season, the coaching staff is working to ensure the team maintains its momentum from the first drive through the end of the game.
Defensive coordinator Kelly Poppinga stated that his primary emphasis during the two weeks of preparation for the Horned Frogs has been ensuring the unit starts fast and communicates effectively. Poppinga noted that the defense has shown flashes of high-level performance over the last three or four years, but he wants to see more consistency in the opening drives and the first quarter. Freshman defensive edge Braxton Lindsey confirmed that players have taken this emphasis on starting practice with intensity to heart in hopes of translating it to the game on Saturday.
The matchup presents significant challenges for the Cougars, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. TCU enters the contest looking to improve after scoring only 10 and 13 points in previous games against North Carolina and UCF. Poppinga observed that while the Horned Frogs' offense has been inconsistent due to a new quarterback and coordinator, their pass game is among the best in the country. Additionally, TCU's defense has been effective against the run, yielding 17th nationally with only 76 rushing yards per game entering Saturday's game.
Offensively, the Cougars must navigate the loss of senior starting right tackle Andrew Gentry, whose foot injury will prevent his participation in Saturday's game and potentially for the rest of the season. Offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick expressed confidence in freshman duo Bott Mulitalo and Siosiua Latu-Finau to fill the void. Roderick noted that during the game against Colorado State, the team averaged 8 yards per carry with both the starters and the second unit. Roderick also described TCU as the most physical and athletic team the Cougars have faced this year.
The game is expected to potentially involve rainy conditions. However, Poppinga stated that the defensive unit welcomes the possibility of inclement weather, noting they are excited to play in any elements, including downpours.
The Cougars are scheduled to play TCU this Saturday.
