PROVO, Utah — BYU Head Coach Bronco Mendenhall described the loss to Missouri with two words: frustrated and mad.
Their 20-16 loss to the Tigers ended a five-game winning streak for the Cougars. The team back at work Monday watching film, trying to pinpoint what went wrong. Late in the 3rd quarter, BYU was in the lead 10-6, but a Mizzou drive, that included a pass interference call and a roughing-the-passer/targeting call, turned into a score. Missouri took the lead 13-10.
Generally a 4th quarter team, BYU was looking to regain the lead, and win the game. But, on the Cougars first drive of the quarter, QB Tanner Mangum was sacked, and fumbled the ball, only to be recovered by Missouri. Which then led to a Tiger touchdown, and a 10 point lead. BYU was able to answer on their next drive with a Francis Bernard touchdown. But, the last four minutes of the game belonged to Missouri. Who ran out the clock, and went home with a win.
Moving forward after a loss in a game BYU should have won is never easy. But, the seniors have more things to focus on this week. Saturday, BYU hosts Fresno State (3-7). This will be their final home game. For the seniors, their final time to play ball in Lavell Edwards Stadium. The leaders will spend their week not only focusing on beating the bulldogs, but also reminiscing on their time spent playing at BYU and the memories they will take with them.
Kickoff is set for 1:05 PM and will be broadcast live on BYUtv and simulcast on ESPN3. The ceremony honoring the seniors will take place prior to kickoff.
