Utah Football: 3 bold predictions for The Holy War vs. BYU in Week 1

1. Utah’s offensive, defensive lines will take over

There’s an argument to be made that Utah has the best offensive and defensive line combination in the country.

Leki Fotu and Bradlee Anae will anchor a defensive that was part of a defense that led the Pac-12 in run defense and ranked second in the country. Offensive tackle Darrin Paulo leads the offensive line that helped the Utes get to the Pac-12 Championship Game with a backup quarterback and No. 2 running back.

BYU will do all it can to keep the game close; they will use tricks and misdirection, but the Cougars simply lack the talent depth to compete with the Utes.

On offense, the Utes’ massive offensive line will pound on BYU’s defensive line, and BYU isn’t very deep upfront. Utah is 6-7 deep along their defensive line, and will throw size and speed at quarterback Zack Wilson.

The game will be competitive for about two and a half quarters until the Utes dig their heels in and just dominate in the trenches. Expect the line to open holes for Zack Moss and Tyler Huntely should have plenty of time to throw. Not only that, but returning offensive coordinator Andy Ludwig expects to use Huntley in the run game more this season.

If the Utes offense keeps the ball that means their defense will stay fresh, which could mean a long night in Provo for the Cougars.