Breaking down today's Utah-BYU game:

Y. OFFENSE VS. U. DEFENSE

Quarterback John Beck (305.7 yards total offense per game) and the Cougar offense have been balanced (155.8 rushing yards per game), efficient (29 TDs in last 37 tries in "blue zone") and productive (33.4 points per game). Todd Watkins (42 catches, 7 TDs) provides the deep threat, while Curtis Brown (942 rushing yards, 13 TDs) and Jonny Harline (52 catches, 734 receiving yards) have been getting the job done. Minimizing turnovers and capitalizing on opponent's mistakes have become trademarks of the Cougar offense, with 52 points off opponent miscues in the past three games. The Cougars should be able to run on a Ute defense that gives up 151.4 rushing yards per game (fourth in the MWC), although Steve Fifita (12 tackles for loss, 5 sacks) will make his presence known. Defensive back Eric Weddle can shut down an opponent's best receiver while playing cornerback, or impact a game from the safety position. Either way, he always seems to come up with a big play (4 sacks, 4 interceptions). Utah's pass defense (210.2 ypg) is third-best in the conference, while its scoring defense ranks No. 2 (24.5 ppg). Consistency, balance and health give BYU the advantage, but scoring on the Utes won't be easy.

EDGE: BYU

U. OFFENSE VS. Y. DEFENSE