3 Key Stats Giving No. 11 BYU the Edge Against Colorado State
Sports Illustrated • • sports
Key Points:
- BYU's explosive offense, led by quarterback Bear Bachmeier, ranks 23rd nationally in explosive play rate, while Colorado State's defense ranks near the bottom in preventing explosive plays, especially on the ground.
- Colorado State's offense is inconsistent, with a 79th-ranked three-and-out rate, while BYU's defense excels at forcing three-and-outs, ranking 9th nationally.
- Colorado State can score quickly when in rhythm, ranking 5th in touchdown drives that avoid third downs, posing a challenge for BYU's defense.
- BYU's offense struggles with three-and-outs but should improve against Colorado State, as BYU ranks 9th in offensive success rate and Colorado State ranks 92nd in success rate allowed.
- The key advantage for BYU lies in the rushing game, where BYU's strong run attack faces a Colorado State defense that ranks poorly in stopping runs, indicating BYU should control the ground game.
