BYU football: Gameday glance

THE STAKES

For Washington ... The Huskies are looking to get off to a strong start under second-year coach Steve Sarkisian. Washington hasn't enjoyed a winning season since 2003.

For BYU ... With a young team and tough road games the next two weeks at Air Force and at Florida State, the Cougars want to open on a good note.

THE TRENDS

For Washington ... The Huskies have lost 12 consecutive road games dating back to 2007.

For BYU ... The Cougars are 3-2 in season-openers, including three in a row under coach Bronco Mendenhall.

THE EDGE

Washington will win if ... Quarterback Jake Locker, a Heisman Trophy candidate, is able to make big plays with his arm and legs.

BYU will win if ... The defense can contain Locker and the offense puts together consistent drives that end with touchdowns.

PLAYER TO WATCH

Jake Heaps, BYU: While Riley Nelson will start, how much will Heaps, the strong-armed true freshman, play? Can he move the offense against a Washington defense that struggled in the secondary last season?

KEY MATCHUP

BYU's defense vs. Washington's offense: The Cougars traditionally have had trouble with running quarterbacks who can throw, like Locker.

INJURY REPORT

Washington: Running back Deontae Cooper and Brandon Huppert are both out due to injury. Defensive end Kalani Aldrich (knee) is questionable.

BYU: Tight end Devin Mahina (ankle) is questionable. Backup cornerback Robbie Buckner (broken hand) is available to play.

SCHEDULE

Date. . .Opponent. . .Time (TV)

Sept. 4 vs. Washington 5 p.m. (CBS C)

Sept. 11 at Air Force 2 p.m. (VS)

Sept. 18 at Florida St. 1:30 p.m. (ESPNU)

Sept. 25 Nevada 4 p.m. (mtn.)

Oct. 1 at Utah St. 6 p.m. (mtn.)

Oct. 9 San Diego St. 4 p.m. (mtn.)

Oct. 16 at TCU 2 p.m. (VS)

Oct. 23 Wyoming Noon (mtn.)

Nov. 6 UNLV Noon (mtn.)

Nov. 13 at Colorado St. Noon (mtn.)

Nov. 20 New Mexico 4 p.m. (mtn.)

Nov. 27 at Utah 1:30 p.m. (CBS C, mtn.)