If BYU can't effectively run up the middle, then one of three things is true:

1) The defense is keying on the run (especially up the middle). Therefore, there are opportunities/mismatches to exploit elsewhere. BYU should identify this quickly and move on

2) The other team is simply better on a man-to-man level. Creative play calls are needed, and BYU's coaches will have to win the game through intellectual superiority. BYU should identify this quickly (ideally during film sessions prior to the game) and prepare to win through creativity and opportunistic play

3) The QB is giving the ball to the dive option when he should be pulling it and moving to the play's next contingency. The mistake is on the QB. BYU should identify this quickly (preferably during Fall Camp) and correct it even faster

We should never justify a wasted opportunity for yards as an attempt to get the defense to "respect" something. Gouging the defense for yards gains their respect. Scoring gains their respect.

Overthrowing a WR on a streak does not make the defense "respect the deep ball." Running for minimal yardage into the teeth of the defense does not make the defense "respect the rush." That kind of stuff just makes BYU look inept (and most football fans should be above that kind of rationalization).