Before the season began, we were talking about how great this BYU team would be and how, with their schedule, BYU could certainly challenge for a NY6 Bowl game, and with some luck, maybe even sneak into the playoff.

Before the season we were also talking about how Utah would be lucky to win 4 games, would certainly not be bowl eligible, and how Whittingham, already on a very hot seat, would almost certainly be relieved of his duties.

My, how things have changed! Now BYU has lost 4 straight to unranked teams for the first time since the 60s, and nearly every BYU fan has reached the point where they're looking for a change in leadership of the FB team. By contrast, Whittingham's job seems very secure. A bowl game for the Utes seems nearly certain. They are clearly a much improved team from a year ago. They are finding their footing in the P12, and are definitely a factor in the P12 South this season. They are certainly facing a very difficult string of games, but as long as they're competitive, there will be no concerns from Ute fans or administrators. The Utes have clearly performed above expectations so far this year, their only blemish a late-game collapse in SLC against Washington State.

What's the worst thing for sports fans? Anger? No. Disappointment? No. Apathy! That's where many of the BYU fans are today. They may still watch the games, but with the same fascination that you have watching a demolition derby. Instead of planning your life around the BYU FB schedule, you no longer care, and you only watch if you don't have anything better to do. Apathy very quickly demonstrates inself in reduced attendance at games, reduced donations to the athletic program, and reduced overall allegiance to the team. In fact, as the Utes' program rises and BYU's continues to decline, there will be some--perhaps many--who will begin to watch Utah games with a little more interest, and may even begin cheering for them to win. After all, BYU is clearly not Utah's rival anymore, so there is no real disrespect in cheering on the decent team from the home state.

And this is the current state of BYU football. Five weeks ago, I couldn't have envisioned this in my worst nightmares. But it's reality.