BYU Prepares to Challenge Colorado in Week 5 Big 12 Preview: Tactical Strategies and Key Match-Ups to Watch

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Noah fifita vs kansas State | Rick Scuter/AP

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Arizona vs. Kansas State

September 27
4:00 pm PT, ESPN

Vegas might be on to something.
The spread is less than a touchdown, and it might very well be for good reason. Arizona is a much-improved team this year, and a lot of the credit goes to the new coordinators.

Danny Gonzales is coaching the hell out of the defense, and Seth Doege runs a competent offensive system that puts up points.

At the same time, Head Coach Brent Brennan is preaching violence. He calls it “redline,” which essentially boils down to a highly physical style of football.

From the practices to the expectations on game day, it’s all about hitting hard and playing with toughness. it’s paid off so far this year, and it’s one of the reasons Vegas is predicting a one-score game.

If Arizona can force turnovers and score touchdowns in the red zone, the Wildcats have a chance. the UA run game is strong, Noah Fifita is playing freely with confidence, and the offensive scheme gets players into open space.

This matchup is one to keep an eye on.

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No. 25 BYU at Colorado

Saturday, September 27
7:15 pm PT, ESPN

There are going to be a lot of eyes on this game.

Just looking at the nationwide schedule,there is essentially no contest that BYU and Colorado competing with. The key matchups of the day start at 4:30 pm and will be over by the time this game starts.

That means plenty of people will flip to this game. Don’t believe me? Go look at the schedule.

This is aided by the “Deion factor.”

The image is of Noah Fifita vs Kansas State with the caption “Noah Fifita vs Kansas State | Rick Scuter/AP”.

How can BYU exploit potential mismatches in Colorado’s linebackers in coverage with their passing game?

Offensive Strategies: BYU’s Air Raid vs. Colorado’s Defense

BYU’s offensive ideology under head coach Kalani Sitake centers around a high-powered air raid offense. Quarterback Jake Retzlaff will be crucial, needing to efficiently distribute the ball to a talented receiving corps. Expect to see rapid passes, designed screens, and a focus on exploiting mismatches. Key to BYU’s success will be establishing a rhythm early and keeping Colorado’s defensive line guessing.

* Passing Game Focus: Look for BYU to target Colorado’s linebackers in coverage, utilizing slot receivers and tight ends.

* Running Game as a Complement: While pass-heavy, BYU will need to establish some semblance of a running game to keep the defense honest. Expect a mix of zone and power running plays.

* Tempo Control: BYU’s ability to dictate the pace of the game – whether a fast-paced, no-huddle attack or a more deliberate approach – will be a meaningful factor.

Colorado’s defense, while improved, has shown vulnerabilities against explosive passing attacks. Defensive Coordinator Jason Beauchamp will likely prioritize:

1. Pressure on Retzlaff: Generating consistent pressure with blitz packages and stunts.
2. Coverage Discipline: avoiding blown assignments and limiting big plays downfield.
3. Run stuffing: Controlling the line of scrimmage to force BYU into predictable passing situations.

Defensive Match-Ups: Containing Colorado’s explosive Offense

Colorado’s offense, led by quarterback Shedeur Sanders, is built on explosive plays and a strong passing game.BYU’s defense, led by defensive coordinator Jay Hill, faces a significant challenge. The Cougars will need to limit the big plays and force turnovers.

* Pass Rush Effectiveness: BYU’s defensive line must generate pressure on Sanders without relying solely on blitzes, which can leave them vulnerable to quick passes.

* Secondary Coverage: Cornerbacks and safeties will need to be physical at the line of scrimmage and maintain tight coverage throughout the route.

* Linebacker Play: Linebackers will be responsible for covering tight ends and running backs out of the backfield, as well as providing run support.

Colorado’s offensive strategy will likely involve:

1. Deep Passing Attacks: Utilizing the speed of their receivers to stretch the field.
2. Play-Action Passing: Exploiting BYU’s aggressive pass rush with play-action fakes.
3. Quick Passing Game: getting the ball out quickly to receivers in space to neutralize BYU’s pass rush.

Key Match-Ups to Watch: Players Who Could Decide the Game

Several individual match-ups will be critical in determining the outcome of this Big 12 matchup.

* Jake Retzlaff (BYU QB) vs. Colorado Pass Rush: Retzlaff’s ability to handle pressure and make quick decisions will be tested.

* Shedeur Sanders (Colorado QB) vs. BYU Defensive Line: Sanders’ pocket presence and arm talent will be key to Colorado’s success. BYU needs to disrupt his timing.

* Kody Epps (BYU WR) vs. Colorado Cornerbacks: Epps is BYU’s leading receiver and a constant threat. The Colorado cornerbacks will need to limit his impact.

* Travis Hunter (Colorado CB/WR) vs. BYU Offense: Hunter’s versatility makes him a game-changer. BYU will need to account for him on both sides of the ball.

Special Teams Considerations: A potential Game-Changer

Special teams often get overlooked, but they could play a crucial role in this game.

* punting and Kick Coverage: Both teams will need to excel in punt and kick coverage to avoid giving up field position.

* return Game: A big return could swing momentum in either team’s favor.

* field Goal Kicking: Consistent field goal kicking will be essential in a perhaps close game. BYU’s kicker, Lucian Hammond, has been reliable. Colorado’s Alejandro Mata needs to be consistent.

BYU Football: Recent Performance & Trends

BYU enters this game with a 3-1 record, having recently defeated UNLV. Their offense has been averaging 34.5 points per game, while their defense has allowed 22.5. A key trend for BYU is their ability to start fast, often scoring on their opening drive. They are currently favored by 3.5 points.

Colorado Football: Recent Performance & Trends

Colorado is 3-1, coming off a tough loss to Arizona State. Their offense is averaging 38.5 points per game, but their defense has struggled, allowing 34.5. Colorado’s reliance on Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter makes them susceptible to disruption if those players are contained. They are 0-1 against ranked opponents this season.

Injury Reports & Availability (as of 2025-09-26)

* BYU: No significant injuries reported. Starting offensive lineman, John Williams, is questionable with a knee injury.