2014 Schedule Preview: BYU Cougars

Nov 16, 2013; Provo, UT, USA; Idaho State Bengals running back Aaron Prier (20) is tackled by Brigham Young Cougars defensive lineman Logan Taele (95) during the third quarter at Lavell Edwards Stadium. BYU won 59-13. Mandatory Credit: Chris Nicoll-USA TODAY Sports.

Defensive Line

The Cougars return just one starter on the defensive line. BYU will start a few players thin on experience. As matter of fact, several expected key contributors are players returning from their two year missions. You have to wonder how the long layoff will affect their stamina in September in Austin.

Remington Peck is lone returning starter. Peck had three sacks last season, including one against Texas. Defensive tackle Marques Johnson saw playing time in 12 games last year and is expected to take over the nose guard position. The 6-foot-2 308 pound Johnson had 28 tackles in 2013.

This will be consecutive weeks Texas faces a defensive line in the midst of a rebuild. This is good news for the Texas offensive line. Joe Wickline’s group can continue to build momentum and confidence with a strong showing. I’m sure the memory of Ash being knocked from the BYU game last year will be at the forefront of every lineman’s mind. The Cougars should provide a much stiffer test for the Texas offensive line than North Texas. Strong will hope to answer any questions along the line before the UCLA game.