Superlatives from BYU’s upset win over Wisconsin

In case you’ve been living under a rock, BYU pulled off one of the biggest upsets in program history with a 24-21 win at #6 Wisconsin.

BYU had a great game plan on both sides of the ball, and players played confident throughout. Here are the MVPs and unheralded guys from the win:

Offensive MVP: The entire offensive line

Jeff Grimes came up with a phenomenal game plan, as BYU attacked Wisconsin’s inexperienced corners and outside linebackers on the edge with fly sweeps. The fly sweeps kept Wisconsin’s defense on its heels and allowed the offensive line to create holes for Squally Canada and company.

Converted defensive lineman Keanu Saleapaga got the start at left guard ahead of two-year starter Thomas Shoaf and more than held his own during his first career start.

We’re only three games into the season, but Jeff Grimes’ and Ryan Pugh’s impact is apparent.

Honorable Mention: Squally Canada, Aleva Hifo

Defensive MVP: Sione Takitaki

Zayne Anderson had the huge interception, but Sione Takitaki was all over the field and wrecking havoc in the run and pass game. Takitaki had a game high 13 tackles and added 2 TFLs and one sack.

Takitaki was impacted by cramps late in the game, but was still able to come up with a huge pass breakup that forced the Badgers to settle for a game-tying field goal attempt.

Takitaki will definitely be making money on Sundays. In the meantime, let’s enjoy another great BYU linebacker making plays all over the field.

Honorable Mention: Zayne Anderson, Corbin Kaufusi

Underrated Performances

Adam Pulsipher

Filling in for an injured Butch Pau’u, the senior linebacker made the most of his opportunity and came up with 8 tackles. If Pau’u is out for any extended amount of time, Pulsipher seems more than capable to fill in.

Gunner Romney

The true freshman had only two catches for 21 yards, but his late catch in traffic that put BYU in field goal range showed great moxie for the young receiver. Romney has a bright future ahead of him.

Chris Wilcox

The junior corner had great coverage all night and was big in the run game, as he ended up with 9 tackles. Wilcox’s sure tackling limited Wisconsin’s big plays.

Gavin Fowler

BYU’s most tenured player saved the win on the go-ahead field goal by taking an errant snap and putting it in good position.