BYU is adjusting to a knew coaching system and different schemes on both ends of the ball. They might need some time to adjust. But they were left in a good situation with talent players on both sides of the ball who had success, winning nine games last year after losing their starting quarterback and having a tough schedule. Their backfield is loaded and their rushing attack should be potent. Their offensive line is a question mark losing two starters. But their replacements could be really good only time will tell. Wide receivers are also a mystery. Only Kurtz returns from those top level receivers and could have a monster year, but their are youngsters with talent on the team as well as some transfers who have real promise. This wide receiver core could end up being amazing or a disappointment well just have to wait and see. On defense we look strong in all position groups. Our corner backs are young but we have great experience in our safetys.
Arizona always packs a punch on the offensive end. They can both pass and run it effectively. Their defense last year though was truly awful. They had one of the worst defenses in the nation so they fired the coordinator and hired a knew guy from Boise State. I think there defense will improve but not enough to win game one. Mid season you might see a marked improvement from where they were last year but they may struggle for a few games.
I am predicting a higher score than anyone else I have seen. In the end I see a shoot out in this game. My prediction is that BYU will win 50-35. That may seem high especially for TY Detmer's first game as offensive coordinator, but I think that Arizona will not be able to stop Hill or company. Arizona's Defense gave up a shocking number of 50 point games last year and I think they start with one this year.
I also predict that their first play of the game will be a long completion maybe even for a touchdown. The running game looks so good for BYU, and they have been talking about establishing there run game, and their wide receivers are a bit green, for all of these reasons I believe everyone will be expecting a run. That is why I think it will be a long pass. Then we will start running the ball.
Best luck to the Cougs.