Former BYU QB Blaine Fowler joined
@espnthefan to break down what's quota for BYU Football this season:
Q: What should BYU's quota be from a wins standpoint this season?
Blaine Fowler: In business, you're never allowed to go backward. That's the expectation where I work, and I think the same principle applies here.
Notre Dame is obviously a major addition to the schedule, but overall I think the schedule is actually a little more favorable. You don't have Texas Tech during the regular season.
Because of that, I think the expectation should be at least matching what they did last year. I think that puts them in the Big 12 Championship Game. Looking at the talent they have and the way the schedule sets up, I don't think they should take a step backward.
Of course, injuries can change everything. You can't predict those. But with this roster, I don't think it's unreasonable to expect them to perform at least as well as they did last year.
Q: Some fans think 10-2 is the expectation while others expect 11 or 12 wins. How do you view it?
Blaine Fowler: When I say "quota," I don't mean I'll automatically be disappointed if they don't hit it. I've had years in business where circumstances changed because of injuries or losing key people.
If you told me right now they'd win 10 games, I'd absolutely take that because I know how hard that is to accomplish. Ten wins would make me happy.
I'd be a little disappointed with nine because of the talent they have, but I'd still say that's a great season. Eight wins? I'd be terribly disappointed with eight.
Q: Even if there are injuries, shouldn't BYU still expect 10 wins because of its improved depth?
Blaine Fowler: They're much deeper than they've been in previous years, but there's still a limit. Remember when they lost six of their top eight linebackers? I don't care if you're Ohio State—you can't lose six of your top eight linebackers and expect everything to stay the same.
As long as you avoid catastrophic injuries to one position group, I agree. They have much better depth than they've had before. But to win 11 games, you still need some fortunate breaks. Every great season includes some lucky bounces.
Full interview:
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