BYU preps for Northern Iowa

The news about Austin Collie taking reps with the quarterbacks overshadowed BYU’s first practice in preparation for Northern Iowa (kickoff is a week from tomorrow). Coach Bronco Mendenhall announced the scout teams for the offense and defense and the scout teams ran plays in an attempt to simulate what Northern Iowa might present next week.
On Friday, Northern Iowa senior running back Corey Lewis was named to the preseason first-team All-America team by The Sports Network. Senior defensive lineman Mark Huygens earned a spot on the second team and wide receiver Johnny Gray was named to the third team.
‘They’re a good team. They have a good running back and a good receiver,” said BYU defensive lineman Jan Jorgensen. “Those two are very good. Their quarterback is new and their offensive line is very inexperienced. They’re going to rely a lot on the run game.’
Mendenhall is impressed with Northern Iowa’s program. The Panthers posted a 12-1 record in 2007.
‘We have a very good idea of what they do and their personnel. I can learn a lot from their program,” Mendenhall said. “As you look at their record the past two years, and even before, they were 12-1 last year. Their consistency and execution and the way they’re coached and the way they’re using their talent, I’m very impressed with. They’re a very good football team and a good program. They’re talented and very well-coached.’
Northern Iowa reached the semifinals of the NCAA FCS playoffs before being eliminated by Delaware. The Panthers were ranked No. 1 in the FCS rankings much of last season.
“I’ve watched a ton of film on them,” said quarterback Max Hall, who served his mission to Iowa. “I could play tomorrow. We want to give it everything we’ve got come that first game and set the tone for the season.’