BYU football: Riley Nelson acknowledges his performance in first half was less than spectacular

ARLINGTON, Texas — Going into Friday's game, many wondered how BYU quarterback Riley Nelson would perform against a defense like TCU's.

After the Cougars' 38-28 setback to the Horned Frogs Friday night, Nelson admitted he played poorly in two quarters.

"This one hurts because I couldn't have played worse in the first half," he said. "I held on to the ball too many times. I can't take sacks and I had turnovers. I feel really disappointed in my performance in the first half."

Nelson threw a pair of interceptions in the first half — including one in the end zone — and completed only 6-of-15 passes. But he did have a 22-yard touchdown pass to Michael Alisa.

For the game, he completed 15-of-29 for 215 yards. Nelson also rushed 23 times for 84 yards.

He also played with a flair, high-fiving the official after barreling into the end zone on a run for a two-point conversion in the final two minutes of the game.

"I don't think I've ever high-fived a ref before," Nelson said.

Coach Bronco Mendenhall was impressed with Nelson's ability to run and his leadership.

"If you just watched him on the two-point play, anyone who wonders who he is, I don't think they should," he said. "That guy is one fierce competitor and he is a great leader. Our team loves him … He's a warrior."

"I trust Riley," said wide receiver JD Falslev. "He has more heart than anyone I know. I love his heart. I love his determination."

BYU put up 28 points, the most it has scored against TCU since scoring 27 in 2007, which was the last time the Cougars defeated the Frogs.

"Their quarterback was hard to handle," said TCU coach Gary Patterson. "He moved the ball around and really did a good job at times, in scramble situations."

Still, Nelson wasn't satisfied. "We left points on the field," he said. "It's really frustrating."

QUESTIONABLE CALL: BYU safety Travis Uale was flagged for targeting TCU receiver Logan Brock with his helmet on a pass play near the Cougar sideline in the fourth quarter.

It was on third down, so that penalty extended the Frogs' drive that culminated in a field goal.

"I thought it was clean play," Mendenhall said. "I thought it was a great play."