CFB: BYU know it

In the beautiful mountains of Utah, lies a school with deep roots within the Mormon Church. With the big man on their side, BYU finds itself undefeated through eight games of college football.

Led by true freshman Bear Bachmeier and head coach Kalani Sitake, the Cougars have defied the odds and are ranked number 11 in the AP poll. They lead the Big 12 ahead of the Cincinnati Bearcats, who are 6-1.

BYU’s success has been unprecedented as they were predicted to win about 8.5 games this season. But the question is, what is the key to their success? How have they overcome these big challenges, and what's in store for the road ahead?

The success of Brigham Young University football has come from a very solid year by a freshman. Bear Bachmeier has put the team on his back, throwing for 1693 yards and 11 touchdowns.

The Cougars' defense has proven to be better this year than last year, now ranked 18th in the country. Faletau Satuala leads the team with 53 tackles and has held a strong secondary, allowing players like linebacker Jack Kelly enough time to get to the quarterback for the sack.

Coaching has also been a big reason why BYU is successful. Play calling is so important in today’s game, and BYU has been great at calling plays on third and fourth downs, averaging a 50 percent conversion rate. It also helps when you have a quarterback who can barrel through a linebacker's face on any given down.

Their biggest challenge was last week’s Holy War against the Utah Utes. BYU edged out a three-point victory against the Utes on October 18th. This was the third time in a row that BYU has won the holy war.

Bear Bachmeier only had 166 yards through the air, but his legs proved to be his greatest ally, which totaled 229 yards and a touchdown.

In the most recent game against the Iowa State Cyclones, BYU was down and out early in the game. Through grit and determination, they clawed their way back to a decisive victory, 41-27. This is a testament to the mental strength and fortitude of this Cougar's team.

The road ahead is not easy for BYU. However, the achievement of being undefeated is certainly attainable. The only true test I see, other than some coin flips in Big 12 play, is away at Texas Tech.

Playing away is always tough, but especially against a team that was previously ranked 7th in the country. Other than that, my roommate is getting very nervous that they will be undefeated.

BYI know it and BYU knows it too. Go Cougars.

Jacob Gold is a second-year broadcast journalism major, to contact him, please email jrg6474@psu.edu