Provo • The BYU Cougars say they are entering their season opener against Utah with a ‘clean slate,’ but that doesn’t mean the offseason and a new year has lessened the disappointment of the collapse against the Utes last year.
Giving up 28 unanswered points to lose 35-27 can do that to a team.
That heartbreaking loss has served as motivation for the Cougars since that game ended. Now that the rematch is just days away with Thursday’s season opener in LaVell Edwards Stadium, the Cougars say they are ready to face their rival.
“It’s done its purpose,” BYU coach Kalani Sitake said of having the Utes as the season opener. “There is a sense of urgency from our players. I don’t know if we have felt this strongly about an opening game.”
BYU linebacker Zayne Anderson said the Cougars aren’t intimidated by the Utes’ No. 14 ranking and see it more as an opportunity.
“What happened last year was a devastating loss and it has been our focus in the back of our minds every training session,” he said.
While not denying how much hype there is surrounding the game, Sitake also said he is trying to keep things in perspective, too.
“We are given 12 opportunities and the goal is to get a 13th opportunity to play,” Sitake said, alluding to a bowl game. “The preparation for this game sparks excitement for the players, but as coaches we want them to be the best they can possibly be for every game.”
The Cougars released a depth chart Monday, with the most notable position being at running back where newcomer Ty’Son Williams is listed as the starter, with Lopini Katoa and Emmanuel Esukpa as the backups.
Sitake said all three could get a chance to play, but Williams won the job in camp.
“Overall, he performed the best,” he said.
Sitake said he decided to not name captains for the season because there are so many team leaders. The leadership gourd will determine who will go out for the coin toss, he said.
Sitake, Utah’s former defensive coordinator, said stopping Utah running back Zack Moss was crucial for the Cougars as he acknowledged Moss deserved all the preseason accolades he has had.
“He has some unique skills and we have been planning for him this entire time,” he said.
Last year, an outmatched BYU team used its emotions to nearly upset the Utes.
Anderson said it was important for the Cougars to have a similar showing on Thursday.
“It’s a game of emotions and we’re taking it as seniors to end this streak,” he said of Utah’s recent dominance. “That’s important to me as a senior.”