BYU, Utah State football: Gameday glance

Utah State (1-2) at BYU (2-2)

Friday, 6 p.m.

LaVell Edwards Stadium (63,470)

Surface: Natural grass

TV: ESPN

Radio: 1160AM, 102.7FM, 1280AM

Temperatures in the 80s, clear skies

THE STAKES

For Utah State... the Aggies haven't beaten BYU in back-to-back seasons since 1972 and 1973. Like last year, a victory over the Cougars would be huge for the program.

For BYU ... the Cougars can't afford another loss to Utah State. After ending a two-game losing streak with a victory last week against Central Florida, BYU needs to build momentum.

THE TRENDS

For Utah State... the Aggies haven't won in Provo since 1978 — a 15-game losing streak.

For BYU... before losing to USU in Logan last year, the Cougars had won 10 straight games against the Aggies. BYU leads the all-time series 43-34-3.

THE EDGE

Utah State will win if... the Aggies can force BYU quarterback Jake Heaps into mistakes, are able to establish a strong running game, and, if the game is close in the end, make plays in the fourth quarter.

BYU will win if... the Cougars avoid turnovers, move the ball effectively both on the ground and through the air, and finish drives.

PLAYER TO WATCH

Jake Heaps, BYU quarterback: The Cougar quarterback continues to go through growing pains. Is this the game that he finally breaks out and takes command of the offense?

KEY MATCHUP

USU running back Robert Turbin and quarterback Chuckie Keeton vs. BYU front seven: Turbin, who scored four touchdowns last week, could be the best running back the Cougars face this season, while Keeton is a dangerous playmaker.

INJURY REPORT

Utah State: Defensive lineman Al Lapuaho (ankle) is expected to play.

BYU: Linebacker Jordan Pendleton (ankle) and offensive lineman Houston Reynolds (foot) are both game-time decisions. Wide receiver Ross Apo (concussion) is likely to play.

NEXT UP

Utah State hosts Wyoming on Oct. 8, while BYU hosts San Jose State on Oct. 8.