BYU's reshuffled protection and the defenses' ability to force sustained drives keep combined scoring below the posted total.
Fundamental Case (2 Drivers)
Utah allowed 14.6 points per game through seven games, while BYU allowed 4.4 yards per play in its six-game defensive snapshot. Those defensive results make sustained execution important rather than allowing either offense to rely entirely on easy scoring. A sack, penalty or failed third down can therefore erase a possession without requiring a takeaway.
BYU's latest game was tied 24-24 after regulation before finishing 39-31 in overtime. The extra possessions added 22 points without demonstrating that ordinary regulation possessions were producing that final scoring pace. Sustaining drives during the scheduled game remains a different challenge from converting the additional opportunities supplied by overtime.
Red Team Counter-Case & Risk Factors
Dampier can break contain and turn ordinary rushing plays into explosive gains. Bachmeier can punish defenders who commit heavily to run support, especially if the reshuffled line holds up. Interceptions or special-teams mistakes can create short fields that bypass the need for long drives. A close finish also raises the danger of overtime adding possessions after regulation.