BYU football: Big Max beefier, quicker for senior season

PROVO — As he enters his senior year, BYU quarterback Max Hall is sporting a new look and a new attitude.

He's hoping that translates into improved results on the field next fall.

Despite the miserable way Hall finished the 2008 season -- six interceptions, two fumbles and two losses in the final two games -- he didn't feel sorry for himself. Instead, he went back to work.

"I'm stronger than I've ever been and I'm faster than I've ever been," Hall said. "We still have spring ball and then a few months before fall camp. I want to be the best physically than I ever have been in my entire life. That's been my main focus."

Hall's coaches have taken notice of his dedication.

"The season didn't end the way he wanted it to end. He didn't do quite as well as he wanted," said quarterbacks coach Brandon Doman. "That was motivation in and of itself, losing and not performing exactly the way you want to is probably one of the best motivators if you're the right guy. And he is the right guy. He's much faster and much quicker on his feet, which will make him a much better quarterback."

Coach Bronco Mendenhall has been impressed with Hall's leadership and unselfishness.

"It's a demonstrated work ethic in terms of how he's changed his body, how his strength numbers have gone up, how he's running, his visible leadership on a consistent basis," Mendenhall said. "Any area that you could evaluate and measure, it's tangible and recognizable not only to the coaching staff, but also to the players, which is more important. I don't think he's doing it to be recognized, he's doing it simply to help our football program."

Midway through last season, Hall said, he got sick and lost about 10-15 pounds, which is why he's determined to get bigger physically.

"I've gained all that weight back, plus some. I started the season at 200 pounds and I'm a little over that right now," Hall said. "I'm hoping to get around 210-215 by the time fall camp starts. I want to be in good shape and be big and strong. Obviously, I had a couple of rough games at the end (of the season). But it's football. Sometimes you play well and sometimes you don't. I hope that I can prepare myself this year so I can be consistent for our team."

Of course, Hall is facing life without wide receiver Austin Collie, who decided to skip his senior year to enter the NFL draft.