http://www.cougarboard.com/board/message.html?id=11849587

Highs since Long Beach State:

1. KC's recovery was the dominant variable needed to continue the upside trend;

2. Surprise of strong leadership from Halford. Hats off to Skyler for reinventing himself into a competent PG.

3. Neilson has performed well as a big who blocks shots and hits 3s, which is exactly what he demonstrated over the summer.

4. Defense has improved a little over last year;

5. Haws, Austin and Winder are better players.

Lows so far:

1. Aytes is out for the year;

2. Halford may be out for a while;

3. Kaufusi is not a disappointment but so far slightly on the low side of expectations. But where he is now is less important than his rate of improvement. We knew he had little experience and knowledge. What is in his heart will determine when and/or if he emerges into a special player.

Anyway you cut it, save KC withering to injury, this team this year should continue the rise that began in January.

Having now had a good look at most of BYU's credible opponents, the schedule looks much tougher than it did a month ago. Only 3 of the next 14 opponents are not in the top 150 and only 2 of the 10 WCC teams fall into the sub 150 grouping. 26 wins going into WCC play in LV can be had.

A storied season is possible. In Blaine Fowler's words: "The sky is the limit for this team!"