(20) BYU at (11) Washington – 7:30 p.m. ET – FOX
When BYU travels to face off against Washington on Saturday, they are considered to be a 16.5 point underdog, which again seems a bit higher than many would expect.
The Cougars are 3-1 to start the season, with big wins over Arizona and Wisconsin, which has surprised many after finishing the 2017 season with a 4-9 record. While BYU has run the ball efficiently this year, its the defense that has turned this team around.
Although they did nothing special against Wisconsin, they held one of the most prolific rushing attacks in college football in check for 60 minutes, then followed it up with a 4 turnover performance against McNeese State. However, it’s going to take much more than a solid defensive performance to knock off Washington this weekend and the pressure will be on quarterback Tanner Magnum to perform against a stout Washington defense.
Washington is coming off two big wins against Utah and Arizona State, which were largely due to the play of their defense. On the season, the Huskies defense has yet to allow more than 21 points in a game and has held opponents to an average of 172 yards passing per game, but the rushing defense has been sloppy at times. Washington should have no trouble cleaning it up and with another solid performance by star quarterback Jake Browning, the Huskies should keep the Cougars in check at home on Saturday.
Again, I have no doubts about Washington coming away with the victory on Saturday but wouldn’t bet on them covering the 16.5 point spread.