BYU football: Scout team critical as Cougs prepare for Falcons

PROVO — Every year, Air Force's offensive scheme presents a unique challenge.

The Falcons are No. 4 in the country in rushing offense, averaging 279 yards per game. Defending Air Force's option attack requires BYU defenders to know their assignments, be disciplined and execute with precision.

That's why the scout team is so important, particularly this week. The scout team's job has been to simulate the Falcons' offense in practice and prepare the Cougar defense for what it will see Saturday.

"It's one of the most critical factors (in preparation)," said coach Bronco Mendenhall. "You can't ever simulate what they're doing perfectly."

Wide receiver and holder Matt Marshall, who was an option quarterback at Skyline High, approached the coaching staff and volunteered to be the option quarterback — essentially trying to imitate Air Force QB Tim Jefferson — on the scout team and is not taking reps with the receivers this week.

Others playing key roles on the scout team offense include JoJo Pili (fullback); JD Falslev and Stephen Covey (wings); Richard Wilson (tight end and fullback); and Mitch Mathews and Cody Hoffman (receivers).

"We kind of make a choice that (the scout team) is going to be more important than any role those guys might play, trying to get a decent picture," Mendenhall said, adding that he's been very happy with the scout team's performance.

e-mail: jeffc@desnews.com