While BYU prepares to rematch UCLA in this years version of the Las Vegas bowl, there are many ties between the 2 schools to note, the first being most intriguing:
1) Rumors have surfaced on various web blogs that UCLA is interested in Bronco as their next head coach. Since the Bruins fired Karl Dorrell, they are seeking someone as a replacement, and Bronco--not surprisingly--is one candidate UCLA would like right now. While its nothing but a rumor right now & wishful thinking from UCLA donors, don't be surprised if Bronco's name appears elsewhere for another vacancy. The chance of him leaving is very unlikely, given his unique coaching approach and family roots, but $$ has a way to be very convincing!
2) UCLA interm heach coach DeWayne Walker used to be an assitant head coach at BYU. Walker has also interviewed for the UCLA opening.
3) Ex-long time BYU assistant Norm Chow has also (apparantly) been involved with the UCLA opportunity. Chow is now the offensive coordinator for the Tennesee Titans.
4) Oh, and lets not forget our good friend Ben(edict) Olson! Highest recruited QB from a few years ago spent his freshman year at BYU, but then transfered to UCLA after his mission to Canada. Since the Las Vegas game will most likely be 85% BYU fans, don't be surprised to hear roaring BOOOOO's from the stands when his name is announced!
Here is a cool video recapping some of the highlights from this years BYU squad. It has been told that Bronco showed the team the movie "300" for a team activity one night last summer during 2-a-day training. This video mirrors that epic battle with this years dominating football team. Check it out:
Hungry?
What the Devil?
"Magic happens when you're living right" -- Austin Collie
Austin 4:18
With just seconds left on the clock, and only hope on the line, Max Hall flung a bomb to Collie streaming down the sidelines on a 4th and 18. This play inevitably ignited a late comeback against arch-rival Utah, securing BYU as repeat MWC Champions.
Flying Banner
During the 2007 Poinsettia Bowl between Utah and Navy, an apparant BYU fan was flying a plane overhead pulled the above banner just before kickoff
Bronco Mendenhall
"I'm passionate about my faith and I'm passionate about principles of truth and virtue and character. Those things represent BYU and BYU's football program. We're on the front line, representing all of those things. I intend to carry that flag up high, not on the ground. If I do my job right, this place will be one of the most dominant programs in the country, as it once was."
Across the Globe
Here is a picture in the athletic football front office of where current players have served missions throughout the world
"The Answered Prayer"
Where were you when scrambling John Beck found Johnny Harline in Salt Lake City? Well, wherever you were...wasn't that suh-WEEEEET!!
