The question has to be asked — it can’t be avoided: What if BYU had this 7-2 overall record with a 5-0 AAC record? What if those three wins against AAC teams were accompanied by two more victories over SMU and Tulsa?

BYU would be playing for a New Year’s Six spot. If the Cougars hypothetically managed to win the AAC, they’d certainly be in the thick of the hunt. Other events — one more loss by Toledo and Boise State — would further cement BYU’s position.