Embattled BYU quarterback Tanner Mangum was having a pretty good game last weekend at Fresno State. Nothing spectacular, but the Cougars were tied 13-13 with the Bulldogs in the late-going and had mounted several nice drives, following-up the momentum from the previous week’s win over SJSU in which Mangum passed for 3 scores.
Then he suffered a season-ending Achilles injury in the 4th quarter.
The Cougars are now 2-8, without a clear plan for the QB position over the final 3 games. There’s always a chance that a new face at the position will bring a spark. However, with the offense having finally shown signs of life with Mangum at the helm, the injury feels like the ultimate downer.
The UNLV Rebels host BYU this Friday night, and could be on the opposite end of the spectrum emotionally. The Rebels were left for dead after losing 5 of their first 7, but have stormed back with 2 great wins over the past 2 weeks, an amazing upset of Fresno State followed by a 31-23 triumph over Hawaii. UNLV stands at 4-5 and is starting to think about bowl eligibility, but must hit the ball over the net against Brigham Young.
Who: Brigham Young University Cougars at University of Nevada-Las Vegas Rebels
When: Friday, November 10th, 10:30 PM EST
Where: Sam Boyd Stadium, Las Vegas, NV
Lines: BYU (+4) at UNLV (-4) / O/U Total: 50
The point spread seems outrageous. A team on a winning streak, fighting for a bowl berth, hosting the worst of all FBS independents including UMass. A 4-point spread?
Reports are that the Cougars are holding an “open competition” for the starting QB spot this week. Perhaps bookies feel that the Rebels won’t know much about whichever youngster gets the nod. But if there was a QB more talented than Mangum, he’d already have been playing.
Maybe it’s BYU’s defense, easily the best unit on the field for the Cougs. The Cougar defense held Fresno State to 20 points and the Boise State Broncos to 24. But they also allowed a losing East Carolina team 30+ points, and wet the bed against Utah State. The ‘D is unlikely to play its best game on the road after yet another psychological blow.
Take the Rebels to cover, bigly.
Throw away any pontifications about a fresh QB at Brigham Young or an impending defensive struggle. This is an improving, bowl-hungry squad at home against a dead door nail. Wager and win on the home team.