The South Florida (USF) Bulls play host to the Brigham Young (BYU) Cougars on Saturday afternoon from Raymond James Stadium in the season opener for both teams. The Cougars travel across the country as they hope to kick off a season filled with high expectations. For the Bulls, years of struggles now lead to a crucial 2022 campaign. These two teams squared off only a year ago when BYU came away with the eight-point win, as they look to replicate that success in the rematch and grab their second win over the Bulls in the last four seasons.
Over the last handful of years, BYU has grown as a national brand and national contender, with the hope that they can turn some heads again in 2022. A daunting schedule could make things tough and even though USF might not present the most trouble, traveling all the way to Florida could prove to be troublesome. A bowl game loss to UAB left a sour taste last season but with games against Baylor and Oregon looming next, starting things off with a bang against the Bulls is key. Kalani Sitake has established consistency and after going 10-3 last season, the blueprint is there to find success.
From an injury perspective, the Cougars do have a pair of talented wide receivers who continue to battle some injuries. Puka Nacua and Gunner Romney have struggled with injuries in the preseason but both appear to be probable for the weekend.
BEAST @Free landBlake ?? https://t.co/YBmIbdU7GO
— BYU FOOTBALL (@BYUfootball) September 1, 2022
BYU didn't necessarily turn a ton of heads last season on the offensive side of things but after finishing top 20 in total offense and top 30 in scoring offense, it's clear this group has the talent in place. BYU has an experienced offensive line and their ability to control the ground game against the Bulls will allow them to control the clock and the game's pace, despite being on the road. It doesn't hurt to have one of the country's most experienced quarterbacks leading the charge as well. Jaren Hall has the ability to wreak havoc on the ground and in the air, with his dual-threat ability sure to cause problems for USF on the defensive side.
BYU allowed nearly 30 points to USF when the two met last season and there are quite a few areas of potential improvement for them to build on. The struggles could come in limiting big play potential from USF and it'll all start with Ben Bywater returning and setting the t one in the middle of the field. Without a strong core of pass rushers with strong experience returning, ensuring that the secondary stays connecting will be key.