PROVO — The most exciting plays in BYU's 35-17 win over Utah State on Friday night were through the air, but the most important ones and the ones that really set up the Cougars' game tempo were on the ground.

It's not often that the Cougars have more running plays (43) than passing plays (23) or almost as many yards rushing (213) as yards passing (218). But with success early on the ground, and with more consistency on the ground, it wasn't far into the game before the rushing game became BYU's most reliable form of offense.

"There were a lot a runs that were audible or check with me based on what Utah State was showing, and we tried to take advantage of that," BYU coach Bronco Mendenhall said.

Six different BYU ball carriers gained yards on the ground, led by Harvey Unga's 118 yards on 21 carries and one TD. Manase Tonga added 31 yards and a 3-yard touchdown run late in the first half.

"I think with the physicality of the linemen and with Manase out there and the wideouts and everyone giving such a great push, it helped us establish the running game early," Unga said.

On BYU's first scoring drive, which covered 83 yards in 18 plays, the Cougars rushed the ball 11 times. The first five plays of the drive were runs, and late in the drive there were five more straight runs. In the first half alone the Cougars rushed for 114 yards on 25 carries.

"We take a lot of pride in being able to run the ball," tight end Dennis Pitta said.

Once the Cougars established the run, as is usually the case, more passing options opened. Max Hall's 49-yard TD pass to Luke Ashworth early in the second quarter came after two straight runs. On a play-action right, Hall was able to draw the defense in, which allowed Ashworth to stop and go and be open as he raced down the right sideline.

The run also made it easier for Pitta to get open on his two TD catches and the deep ball he caught right before the half that set up the Cougars' score right before intermission.

Actually, BYU's two biggest plays on the ground came in the fourth quarter. On a first down from Utah State's 31, Unga broke outside for a 23-yard gain that saw him carry several tacklers the final 10 yards. On the very next play he pounded it in from eight yards out to give the Cougars an 18-point lead.

On BYU's next drive, reserve quarterback Riley Nelson showcased his specialty on a quarterback draw that was good for 13 yards

"We're very good when we run the ball and have balance, and that's something I've been emphasizing," Mendenhall said.

e-mail: jimr@desnews.com