Cougar running game critical in season-opener

PROVO — Because BYU is breaking in a new quarterback and has been blessed with a stable of talented running backs, it's no wonder coach Bronco Mendenhall says that his team will rely heavily on the running game in 2007.

And given that the season-opening opponent, Arizona, is known for its ability to stop the run (the Cougars rushed for only 24 yards on 24 carries last season); fullback Manase Tonga will be on the sidelines serving a one-game suspension; and Fui Vakapuna still may not be at full strength after suffering a leg injury last year, BYU's rushing attack takes on even more importance on Saturday.

Fortunately for the Cougars, they have redshirt freshman Harvey Unga, who could be thrust into a high-profile role against the Wildcats.

"Harvey Unga will probably carry the ball more than Fui in the opener, as Fui has been building his way back into condition and confidence," Mendenhall said. "I anticipate that happening in the first couple of games. Eventually, it could shift to where it's Fui complemented by Harvey. But to begin with, it will probably happen the other way."

Unga shined in the two scrimmages of fall camp and looks ready to shoulder the load. Still, Mendenhall lamented the absence of Tonga in the opener.

"Really, the glue to the offense right now, in my opinion, in terms of versatility, is Manase," he said.

Senior Joe Semanoff will replace Tonga against Arizona.

ON THE NOSE: When Russell Tialavea went down with a season-ending knee injury early in fall camp, a major void was created at the noseguard position. With less than one week until the season-opener, Mendenhall says there will be as many as three to see playing time at that spot — true freshman Eathyn Manumaleuna, redshirt freshman Rick Wolfley and junior college transfer Mosese Foketi.

"The nosetackle position is unfolding even as we speak," Mendenhall said. "Right now, a true freshman is our most consistent player there in Eathyn. We have two other players that are kind of situational-specific. We moved an offensive lineman, Rick Wolfley, who we feel good about as a run-stopper because of his size and strength, if we happen to play a team with a two-back set or heavy run-emphasis. I'm really encouraged by what he can provide in that role. Mosese Foketi is kind of a quick, active, lighter pass-rush specialist. He has his place as well. At that position, you're going to see three different players in a role-based approach rather than a single starter."