Analysis of BYU's Independence

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Brigham Young University (BYU) has now been independent in football for four years. Although at a glance you can see there was no eye-catching record or top 10 win in any of those years, I think Independence is still working out fairly well. Allow me to explain.

It seems to me that Independence is more about the experience, and less about the results. Sure, losing games dims that experience, but playing at Notre Dame and Wisconsin in the same season is special for most programs. While there are downsides, such as long travels and no conference championships, BYU gets to play in every region of the U.S. almost each year of independence. In the 2014 regular season BYU played in Connecticut, Texas, Idaho, Florida, Tennessee and California. This not only enriches the experience for coaches and players, but also the BYU fan-base nationwide.

Don't get me wrong, a Big XII Invite would have its perks, but mixing up opponents for the schedule each year is an exceptional spot to be in. In 2015 BYU will get to play at Nebraska, at UCLA, at Michigan, and at an NFL stadium in Kansas City. The team will also play games against LSU and USC in the future. BYU's Athletic Director Tom Holmoe has done a superb job.
Although the rivalry with Utah is diminishing, Independence allows BYU the flexibility to play the Utes and the Utah State Aggies annually. Without Independence, these games would take most of the limited spots in the out of conference games, resulting in an unchanged schedule year after year. A Big XII invite would also isolate many of BYU's fans throughout the country.

Still, BYU Athletics isn't complacent with where its at and knows it has to do better. Last week the department shared a survey that dealt with various topics regarding the program. Surely they will get a good understanding of exactly where fans think the program is headed.

Let's look over Independence so far: BYU came out with a 10-3 record in 2011, and followed with three straight 8-5 seasons. Every year had ups and downs downs, so which years were its best and worst? 

Although 2011 didn't really feel like a 10 win season, I think it was BYU's best year of independence. The first win BYU had as an independent was against SEC opponent Ole Miss, and they followed it with a close loss at Texas. The home loss against Utah was the low point for the season, but Nelson's comeback win against Utah State and Hoffman's TD return against UCF were great moments.

In my opinion, I think 2012 was the worst year of independence, but it definitely had some bright spots. Although most of BYU's losses were within just a few points, the team's inability to finish close games became frustrating for fans. BYU was respected for its defense, and the bowl game win in San Diego was a thrilling end to the season. The selection of Ziggy Ansah in the NFL Draft's first round was also a big boost for BYU.

2013 was a good year, especially since the schedule was so exciting. The loss at Virginia brought a bad start to the season, but a solid team performance against Texas and a great October kept the season afloat.

Then there was 2014, a year independence was at its best and worst. Don't let the four game losing streak or loss of Taysom diminish the positives of the season. BYU was on the national radar more than it had been in years, and a 3/3 record against power conference opponents adds something to BYU's résume.

2015 should surpass 2013 as the toughest schedule in school history. While another 8-5 season is probable, a 10+ win season is still attainable.

What are your thoughts on independence?