Things to know about BYU

Friday is game day this week. Did you know that the Frogs play on Friday for the second time this year and the third time in the last two seasons? The Baylor game this year and the SMU game in Dallas in 2010 are the other two games.

More on things to know about BYU:

• The series with BYU is tied 5-5.
• Even though it feels like a MWC game, this is the first non-conference game between TCU and BYU since 1988.
• This is the first game between TCU and BYU played on artificial turf since BYU’s trip to Amon G. Carter Stadium in 1987, which the Frogs won 33-12. A fast track favors the Frogs!
• BYU is much improved and more physical on both sides of the ball than in past years. They are most improved at linebacker, where USC transfer, No. 4 Uona Kaveinga, and No. 44 Brandon Ogletree anchor the 3-4 defense for BYU. They’ll throw a lot of five-man fronts at the Frogs trying to stop the run.
• BYU has some great wide receivers – big surprise! They are bigger than in the past with No. 2 Cody Hoffman at 6-foot-4 and No. 11 Ross Apo (who originally signed with Texas) at 6-foot-3. Don’t forget Southlake Carroll’s McKay Jacobson, who had a big day against TCU in 2006. He can run, too.
• Not the expected starter at quarterback for the Cougars. Riley Nelson came off the bench against Utah State and never looked back – throwing for 11 touchdowns so far in 3-plus games. He’s a dangerous dual-threat QB who can make plays with his feet. He has added a new dimension to BYU’s offense, while leaving original starter Jake Heaps in the dust.
• The Frogs catch a BYU team looking for its sixth-straight win.
• The Frogs' defense will need to continue the roll it’s been on harassing quarterbacks with pressure and covering tight in the secondary.
• It’s going to be a beautiful night for football, and word is that the roof at Cowboys Stadium will be open.
• This will be a physical, physical football game won by the team that takes care of the football and wins in the kicking game. Special teams have to be special in this one!

Kick ‘Em High! And Go Rangers!