Prediction #14 BYU Football vs. Arizona

BYU football is back. The Cougars are 5-0 and in first place. 14 nationally, hosting the Big Noon Kickoff for the first time and firmly in the race for the conference title. Today we predict BYU vs. Arizona.

Arizona is desperate for a win after a disappointing loss to Texas Tech last week. A loss to BYU would leave Arizona at 3-3 on the season and 1-2 in conference play. The Wildcats are a very dangerous team. They already have one ranked road win this season and one of the top two or three wide receivers in the country: Tetairoa McMillan. Expect Arizona to be motivated in front of a sellout crowd in a game presented by Big Noon Kickoff.

BYU, on the other hand, has done well as an underdog this season. BYU is 5-0 against the group and has been the underdog in every game against P4 competition this season. This game against Arizona marks the first time BYU has been favored against a P4 team this season.

BYU will have to deal with expectations and outside noise for the first time this season. The Cougars, originally picked by Vegas to win 4-5 games, were picked to finish 13th in the conference this season.

If LJ Martin is truly healthy again, expect BYU to get him the football early. A consistent rushing attack would open up everything for the BYU offense and take it to new levels.

Jake Retzlaff has been the main contributor on offense this season. He needs to make some big plays while taking care of the football.

On defense, BYU will be tasked with stopping a skilled Arizona offense. The Cougars have forced a turnover in every game this season. Expect a turnover or two to give the BYU offense a short field.

Arizona is capable of pulling off the upset, but BYU is favored for one reason: They're the better football team. If BYU takes care of the football, ends redzone drives with touchdowns and has a turnover or two, the Cougars have a really good chance of winning this game. And we believe they will.

Prediction: Arizona 23 | BYU31