Both Utah and BYU are terrible at 3rd down conversions. Utah is just 31% which is 122nd in FBS and 15th in the big 12. BYU is 35% which is 107th in FBS and 14th in the Big 12.
Utah's defense only allows 3rd down conversions on 25% of opponent third downs which is 2nd in the nation and 1st in the big 12. BYU's opponents convert on 40% of 3rd downs which is middle of the pack (81st in the nation and 8th in the Big 12). A Rod has got to go to his money plays on third down. We also need to run the ball on 1st and 2nd down to stay in manageable distance. If we are in 3rd and 6+, we are not in great shape. I think we need to convert on at least 40% of our third downs to win.

We also need to get their offense off the field. We need to keep them behind the sticks and force them into obvious passing situations. We can't let them into 3rd and 3 or 4. They will call their money plays which usually involves Micah Bernard. If we keep them to 3rd and 7+ where Wilson/Rose is put into a more obvious passing situations, then that's when we let Jack Kelly and the Isaiah's get third money's worth.

Anyway, I trust Jay Hill that he knows what he's doing and he'll figure it out. I don't trust A-rod as much but I trust Jake.

GO COUGS