I like Utah State in this spot at home against an equally bad team. I think Utah State has actually looked better on the offensive side of the ball with QB Diondre Borel a dual threat QB. He is the type of QB BYU has had issues with this season. Utah State is not getting respect at home because BYU is still BYU in the eyes of many including the public that is betting them 65% and this line opened at +6, but the smart money is coming in on Utah State moving this line to +4.5 and +4 in some places. Overall Utah State's O is ranked 51st in total offense and that's against an average 67th ranked opponent. BYU is ranked 82nd against an average 59th ranked defense.
Utah State was able to hang with Oklahoma and they did their best through the first half vs. Fresno that had them in a position to win, but everything changed after that. This game is huge for both teams as a loss likely means no playoffs with a tough road ahead. Right now BYU can't do anything and that includes getting a pass rush which has been the main issue that has held back Borel and the Utah State offense. I expect them to be able to move the ball on BYU as the Cougars suffered two devastating injuries making this defense that ranks 102nd in the land that much worse. linebacker Jameson Frazier has a broken thumb and their top nose tackle Romney Fuga tore up his knee. This should give Utah State some room to be more balanced.
BYU Offense has struggled and Utah State's D has gotten better and has not played to it's potential. At home on national TV on ESPN look for first year starter Jake Heaps and the young offense to have plenty of problems.
