Daily Herald sports writers Darnell Dickson and Brandon Gurney debated various BYU sports topics in a report published October 6. The discussion focused on the football team's upcoming game against Iowa State and recent observations regarding the men's and women's basketball programs.
Regarding the football matchup against Iowa State scheduled for Friday, Oct. 10, analysts discussed the impact of recent injuries. Running back LJ Martin and linebacker Isaiah Glasker are out this week due to injury, though they could potentially return for the Notre Dame game. Gurney suggested that freshman running back Journee Tonga may see the most rushing opportunities in Martin's absence, while Dickson noted that the team may need to rely more on Bear Bachmeier through the air or on the ground if the running game struggles.
The discussion also addressed the previous week's performance against TCU on Saturday, Oct. 3. While the Cougars secured their first win in Fort Worth in 20 years, Dickson noted that the offensive execution was marked by sloppiness and mistakes. Gurney observed that weather conditions in Fort Worth significantly hampered Bear Bachmeier's ability to grip the football and present a downfield passing threat, though he predicts a cleaner performance and a 300-yard passing performance from Bachmeier during Friday's game.
In basketball news following the Marriott Madness event, Gurney expressed interest in Kailey Woolston, noting her strong performance despite previous struggles with compartment syndrome in her arm. For the men's team, Dickson noted that the group's dynamic may shift toward better outside shooting compared to the previous year, though much depends on the eligibility of Jaxon Kohler.
The BYU women's soccer team holds a 3-0-1 record following a shutout loss to Utah State on Sept. 10. Dickson noted that the team has scored nine goals in their first eight matches, though they have scored seven goals over their last three matches.
The Iowa State football team presents a significant obstacle for the Cougars, specifically due to the big-play ability of running back Aiden Flora, who recorded three rushing touchdowns and two passing touchdowns in his last outing.
