David Nixon, a former BYU linebacker, has been closely observing the team's performance this season. He has been impressed with the BYU defense but is now eager to see the offense step up and contribute more, even by scoring points themselves.

"BYU's Offense and Defense in a Season of Struggles"

Defense's Early Struggles

During the September and October months, BYU was scoring points in all three phases of the game, showing great creativity. However, in the last three games, including the match against Utah, the defense has surrendered 52 points in the first half while only giving up 14 in the second. This trend has been a cause for concern. For example, in the recent 28-23 loss to Arizona State, the Cougars managed just a field goal in the first half while Arizona State built a large lead. And in the 17-13 home loss to Kansas, BYU managed only a lone field goal in the second half.

Offense's Post-September Woes

The offense hit a wall against Utah and has not been the same since. Prior to the kickoff in Salt Lake City on Nov. 9, the Cougars averaged 35.1 points a game, second most in the Big 12. But over the last three games, their point production has dropped to 19.3. This drop in scoring has affected their postseason destiny. Nixon believes that the offense needs to find a way to sustain an energy level throughout the entire 60 minutes.

Looking Ahead to the Home Finale

This Saturday night, BYU (9-2, 6-2) hosts Houston (4-7, 3-5) in the home finale. Houston poses a stingy defense but has its own scoring woes. Their 13.6 average ranks at the bottom of the Big 12. To reach the conference championship, BYU needs a restoration of focus and urgency and a win against Houston. They also need Arizona State to lose at Arizona or Iowa State to fall against Kansas State. Nixon emphasizes the need for BYU to start fast and win the turnover battle. He believes in the team's running backs but also wants Jake (Retzlaff) to sling the rock and utilize the capable receivers.Even if BYU beats Houston and doesn't make it to the Big 12 title game, they will still have a 10-2 record, which could be considered one of the best 10-win seasons in school history when considering the strength of schedule. Nixon is hopeful for a strong finish and a successful season.