2014 Schedule Preview: BYU Cougars

Nov 9, 2013; Madison, WI, USA; Brigham Young Cougars running back Jamaal Williams (21) rushes with the football during the first quarter against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium. Wisconsin won 27-17. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

Running Back

Lost in Hill’s herculean performance versus Texas was the effort from Jamaal Williams. Williams rushed 30 times for 182 yards. He finished 2013 with 1,233 yards in 10 games. BYU is hoping the 6-foot-1 200 pound back can duplicate or even build upon his sophomore campaign. Even if he can’t, the team is well-stocked in the backfield.

Senior Paul Lasike was third on the team in rushing last season. He rushed for 87 yards and a score against Texas. His 10 yard touchdown run late in the second quarter helped extend BYU’s lead to 24-14 and forced the Longhorns to play catchup the rest of the night. Lasike is one of those big backs that gave Texas fits last season. Algernon Brown is another big body who could see action. It would behoove Mendenhall to rotate his running backs to keep them fresh in the Texas heat.

Texas should know where the defense stands against the run after this game.