BYU football: Cougar tight ends haven't found end zone, but production is up

PROVO — BYU's tight ends failed to catch a touchdown pass last season. Four games into the 2011 campaign, the tight ends still haven't found the end zone.

But there are positive signs, as the Cougar offense has received increased production from that position.

Marcus Mathews (10 catches for 101 yards), Richard Wilson (seven for 59 yards) and Austin Holt (five for 97 yards) each already have more receptions than they did all of last season.

"Pretty darn good," said offensive coordinator Brandon Doman when asked to assess the group.

"I think those guys are on track to catch 70 balls, if we stay the course with them," Doman said, adding that they've done a good job blocking, catching passes and providing "a lift" to the offense.

"Marcus Mathews is starting to really come on right now to provide us with a stable guy at the flex (tight end) position," Doman said. "The combination of the three has been pretty productive in this offense. I think it will continue to grow from here. I'm really pleased with what they're doing. Coach (Lance) Reynolds has done a good job with them."

Coach Bronco Mendenhall said the tight ends have been "maybe a little more consistent than what I thought they would be … I think they're playing with more confidence."

Mendenhall said Holt "is probably farther along than I ever thought he would be, not only blocking, but the way he's carrying himself and his presence. I've been very impressed … Roles are starting to be defined a little bit more."

IMPRESSED WITH TURBIN: When asked about Utah State's star running back Robert Turbin, Mendenhall said, "I think he's a great running back. In fact, I was just telling our offensive staff I would love to coach him. He plays hard, he plays physical, he runs with power, he doesn't back down. He's fun to watch. I really think he's a good player."

Turbin did not play against BYU last season due to a knee injury. He was sidelined for the entire 2010 campaign.

THE SERIES: Friday's game marks the 81st meeting between BYU and USU. The Cougars lead the all-time series, 43-34-3 and they've won 27 of the last 31 meetings.

BYU has won 15 consecutive games against Utah State at home, having last lost to the Aggies in Provo in 1978. During that span, the Cougars have outscored USU at Edwards Stadium by an average of 39.7-15.7.

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