It seems to me that many of the dire predictions regarding the Texas game assume that Texas has made a lot of improvements and that BYU has stood still. While I will not argue that everyone starting for BYU would necessarily be starting for Texas, I believe there are several who possibly would (Hill comes to mind).

From my perspective, BYU changes include:
- A vast (potential) improvement in wide receiver. I really think Kurtz can be the Hoffman replacement, but with more size and speed. I'm hoping Blackman can be the Watson replacement. Davis is very fast and should do well as a fourth receiver. Apo is a wild card. Who knows what will happen there? Leslie should be a more than adequate replacement for the 2013 possession receivers.
- An improvement at tight end. At least now there is a workable number of candidates. I always felt that the coaches should have pulled names out of a hat and designated someone the starter and then focused on him (during the days of a lot of highly regarded recruits and no production).
- An improved offensive line. I'm not saying they will be perfect but I think they'll be considerably better. I sense some nastiness in this group. I think the coaching staff is demanding more out of them. Having WRs who can get separation should help here.
- Improved RB play. I've heard that Williams is working on blocking and pass catching. As long as he stays healthy, he should be pretty good.
- Improved QB play. I'm mystified by those who still maintain that Hill can't pass. For many reasons (intelligence, athleticism, experience, opportunity to work with receivers), I think that barring injury, he will finish the year in the top 10 in the nation in pass efficiency rating.
- Improved play from the defensive backfield. Nowhere has a Mendenhall-coached team done a better job of disguising the fact that not one of the starters at corner last year should have been there. Daniels gave a great effort but he's really a safety. On a good team, none of the rest should have seen the field. Still, BYU was not picked to death at this weak spot.

- I expect a dip in linebacker play. Hopefully it won't be too deep. It will depend a lot on Kafusi.
- I'm not sold on the special team play. Last year it was abysmal from punting to coverage. Will they be better? I haven't heard.

All in all, I think this team is a significant improvement over the last several years' teams. I'm excited for the season.

Oh, and BYU is 3-1 against Texas.