Provo » A week off gives the BYU football players a chance to heal, important after eight games. The Cougars (6-2) don't play again until Nov. 7 at Wyoming.
It is also the opportunity for self-analysis, sharpening fundamentals, and having the young guys, scout team players, to run the drills, too.
"At this point of the season, it gives us a chance to focus on doing it right," BYU quarterback Max Hall said. "We're working on things our team needs to work on.
"I'm still watching film."
The self-analysis has nothing to do with the team's mental state. Rather, for example, coach Bronco Mendenhall examined 50 BYU running plays.
"Fundamentals this week," he said.
The bye week's practice schedule has been shifted. Today will resemble the normal light Monday practice and the team will get the weekend off. Friday's workout will also be light.
Among those who expect to be at full strength for Wyoming is receiver McKay Jacobson . He pulled a hamstring during warmups prior to BYU's victory against Utah State on Oct. 2.
Jacobson predicted he would play, the same date that his return was predicted.
"He's been accurate," Mendenhall said. "We haven't let him open up yet."
Upgrading depth
BYU's coaches will use the bye week to hit the recruiting trail, and not only to re-enforce ties to those already recruited.
Because BYU safety Shiloah Te'o was kicked off the team for violating team rules earlier this month, the Cougars will most likely look at a junior college transfer to fill the void.
"If we find one," Mendenhall said. "He has to be the right type of player."
Weather at Wyoming
There's always a chance that the weather will play a role in BYU's next game. The wind tends to whip up as well as snow. Cold in Laramie, Wyo., is a given.
"Hopefully it's not too cold," Hall said. "Even if it is, let's go play."
Mendenhall understands the difficulties in playing in poor conditions. He'd rather not dwell on it, though.
"Anytime you're in Laramie, it's always an adventure," he said. "You can't overemphasize it without it entering the mind of the team."
Mendenhall hasn't had an opportunity to look at much Wyoming video, but has noticed that the Cowboys (4-3) are playing with much more confidence.
"The biggest thing is success," he said.
