No. 12 BYU looks to stay in the Big 12 title hunt when it hosts TCU late Saturday night in a matchup featuring two of the league’s most productive offenses. Also, two teams eager to recover from disappointing Week 11 losses.
The Cougars (8-1, 5-1 Big 12) enter with one of the nation’s most balanced attacks, averaging 200 rushing yards per game behind standout running back LJ Martin and freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier.
The Stanford transfer passer has thrown for 1,881 yards with 12 touchdowns and just four interceptions while adding mobility that has buoyed an offense still evolving under a first-year starter. BYU’s turnover margin (+7) and ball control advantage of 32 minutes in time of possession per game. Two stats critical to its success.
TCU (6-3, 4-2) has leaned heavily on quarterback Josh Hoover, who ranks among the nation’s top passers with 2,690 yards and 23 touchdowns. The Horned Frogs, however, have struggled to finish drives, ranking 94th nationally in red zone offense. Their penalty issues and inconsistency on the ground have put added pressure on Hoover and a passing game led by receiver Eric McAlister.
BYU’s defense has been a strength, ranking 16th in scoring defense and 11th in red zone percentage. That unit will be tested by a TCU offense converting over half its third-down opportunities, which is 13th in the FBS.
For BYU, a win keeps its playoff and conference championship hopes intact, while TCU looks to avoid sliding out of contention in the Big 12 race.
BYU hosts TCU in Provo on Saturday (10:15 p.m. ET, ESPN).
More college football news:
- Deion Sanders buyout, contract details as Colorado Buffaloes coach
- Brian Kelly buyout, contract details as LSU Tigers coach
- Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter suffers major blow during rookie season
- Will Lane Kiffin leave Ole Miss? What to know about latest rumors
- Beloved college football mascot diagnosed with cancer