This has not been a typical BYU defense, especially losing leads. But again, you have inexperienced players in and they don't rise to the pressure/lack confidence, part of which I will happily point back to Howell. Any doubt from a coach is magnified X2 to the player, they have to know you are in control and confident.

It is a very simple thing, but I tell my kids the same thing before every game. "You are prepared/ready/etc, execute and enjoy the result" That is the last thing in their heads before we get on a bus or go out to warm up and they believe it. I don't see that players on the defensive side of the ball believe they can make plays right now.