3 Bold Predictions for Utah vs BYU Week 1 Clash

It's only fitting that in the opening week of the 2019 NCAA Football season, fans will be treated to watching the "Holy War" between the Utah Utes and BYU Cougars.

When these two squads met last season, BYU blew a 27-7 lead to surrender 28 unanswered Utah points to lose in shocking fashion. Entering the new season, BYU will have some extra motivation, but will it be enough to upset the Utes?

Here are three bold predictions for the "Holy War."

3. Tyler Huntley Accumulates Over 400 Scrimmage Yards

Utah quarterback Tyler Huntley's campaign last season ended due to a broken collarbone. As a result, he missed the BYU matchup, which helped the Cougars stay competitive. Huntley plays a pivotal role in the Utes' offense, from his accurate arm, to his ability to scramble. Expect Huntley to accumulate over 400 yards from scrimmage against BYU.

2. Utah's Run Defense Flexes Its Muscle

In terms of run defense, Utah ranked as the fourth best in the nation last year, and their squad remains relatively unchanged. While the Utes surrendered over 150 yards on the ground to BYU last year, don't expect it to happen again. The Utah run stuffers will limit the Cougars running game to under 100 yards, and will force quarterback Zach Wilson to throw the ball on Thursday.

1. Zack Moss Rushes for Over 150 Yards

Like Tyler Huntley, Utah running back Zack Moss was sidelined in last year's BYU game due to a knee injury. While there have been recent concerns over his hand, Moss is expected to play and will play a major role. Moss is viewed as the second-best senior running back in the 2020 NFL Draft class, according to ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. Once he gets going, there's no stopping him. BYU will find that out, as he runs the rock for over 150 yards.