PROVO -- In this multi-part series, BYUCougars.com continues its preview of the 2004 season. Today's feature gives a brief overview of the BYU offense and the running back position.
OFFENSVIE OVERVIEW
After leading the nation in scoring and overall offensive production in 2001, the Cougars have struggled to regain that same offensive production as of late. Thanks to a promising recruiting class--including a hearty dose of speed and skill from the junior-college ranks--and experience at key positions, the Cougars will look to get the high-powered BYU offense rolling once again.
Last season, the Cougars ranked 102nd nationally in total offense, averaging an uncharacteristic 314.58 yards per game. In the scoring department, the Cougars posted just 16.33 points per contest, ranking 109th in the country.
"We want to move back in the direction we were moving in 2001 when we led the nation in scoring and total offense," Crowton says. "I'm not saying we're going to be that successful to begin with, but that's the direction we're trying to move. We're going to move towards a fast-paced, aggressive style of offense that BYU has always known."
In order to move in that direction, its no secret the offense will need to make significant improvement in limiting the number of penalties and avoiding sacks, turnovers and dropped balls.
In 2003, the Cougars ranked last in the MWC with a negative 1.17 turnover margin per game. BYU also ranked eighth in the league, allowing 35 sacks for 247 yards. The Cougars also finished eighth in the league in penalties with 87 for an average of 63.8 yards per game.
"We have to limit the number of penalties, sacks, turnovers and dropped balls," Crowton says. "We have to be better, more consistent at making plays. Making improvement in those areas will help us to be more efficient on offense and give us the ability to have more big plays. That is going to be our focus."
RUNNING BACK
With the loss of key players at running back, the Cougars will enter the season with two experienced and highly talented players to carry the load; however, running backs coach Lance Reynolds says having the necessary depth at running back is going to be a key issue he will need to address throughout the season.
"Our challenge this season will be to overcome our lack of depth," Reynolds says. "We may need to look at some things that will allow us to help us with our depth situation. We'll be looking for opportunities to help supplement the loss of some key players as we go through the season."
Entering fall camp, there is no question who the Cougars will rely on most often. While depth may in fact be an issue, Reynolds has a great deal of confidence in returning backs Fahu Tahi and Curtis Brown.
Tahi and Brown are listed as the top-two running backs entering fall camp. Reynolds says both players will be used early and often in the retooled BYU offense.
"While we could use a little more depth, I feel good about the players we'll have in camp," Reynolds says. "Fahu has starting experience and there isn't really anything Curtis Brown can't do. Those two are experienced, returning players who will be our primary backs."
Tahi was the Cougars' leading rusher as a true freshman in 1999 and returns as the top ball carrier from the 2003 season. Following his return from a Church mission in Florida, and a redshirt season in 2002, Tahi saw significant playing time and was a part-time starter for the Cougars last season. The 6-foot-0, 230-pound bruising back from West Valley City, Utah, gained 77 yards on 34 carries last season, and was credited with 14 receptions for 144 yards.
"Fahu gives us some effective options," Crowton says. "Because of his size and speed, we can use him as a running back or a full back. He can run the ball well, he has the ability to catch the ball out of the backfield and can pass block. The big thing though, he gives us experience in the backfield."
Like Tahi, Brown also saw significant playing time as a true freshman in 2002, racking up 299 yards on the season. Cougar fans got a glimpse of Brown's talent against Utah State that season, leading BYU to a 35-point come-from-behind victory over the Aggies--the largest come-from-behind victory in school history. The 6-foot, 200-pound back racked up a career-high 217 yards on 33 carries with three touchdowns to earn MWC Player-of-the-Week honors.
Brown effectively gained 15 pounds during his redshirt season (2003) and looks to be faster and even more physical entering the 2004 season.
"Curtis gives us so many options," Crowton says. "He's gained some weight, so he's going to be more physical, but he's also quick. He did a great job last year giving our defense a workout as a member of the scout team. He really worked hard and we're expecting he will play a big role for us."
Reynolds said others will be expected to contribute at running back, including Bryce Mahuika, Eric Watterson and Nathan Miekle. Moa Peaua made the switch from defensive line to full back during spring and will also look to play a role in specific situations.
"Moa Peaua is also another player who will contribute," Reynolds says. "He's big and physical. He can run and is very athletic. The challenge for guys like Moa and Bryce [Mahuika] will be to get ready and be ready to contribute when we need them."
Mahuika returned from a Church mission earlier this year and participated in spring drills. Initially listed as a receiver, Mahuika moved to running back to help with the Cougars' need for depth.
Friday, BYUCougar.com will feature the quarterbacks and offensive line.