Crossing the Goal Line: Predicting the TCU vs BYU Football Game

Nathan Cross gives his prediction for the game, and whether or whether not the frogs cover the spread.

Editor's Note: "Crossing the Goal Line" is a weekly column by Nathan Cross in which he predicts the upcoming TCU game. He looks at the point spread, the over/under, and makes a prediction. This is his opinion and should not be taken as betting advice.

TCU is favored to win by 5.5 points with an over/under of 51.5. Let's examine why I am picking TCU to win this game and why I believe they will cover the spread against BYU. 

Many people may disagree with my opinion. However, I still have hope that this team can win this game. If the team can stand behind Josh Hoover, they could turn this season around and make a bowl game. 

Here are some reasons to back up my opinion.

Why TCU Will Beat The Spread Over BYU

Josh Hoover Could Be a New Spark of Energy

Josh Hoover came in after an apparent knee injury to TCU's starting quarterback Chandler Morris. Hoover looked very rocky to start but seemed to get more comfortable as the game went on. As he will now take over first-team reps, he will begin to feel more comfortable and connect more with receivers. I have faith that he can bring energy to this team. People need to cut him some slack on his shaky playing, as he has only had a few snaps in his college career. He will step up and prove he can help win some games.

Josh Hoover will get the start as quarterback against BYU :: Tony Beblowski/KillerFrogs

BYU Could Be the Team to Beat to Turn The Season Around

BYU is a must-win if TCU wants to get the season back on track. They are a strong enough team to provide momentum for this Horned Frog team heading into a hard rest of the season. The Frogs need to figure it out and get this win over the Cougars.

The Frogs Are at Home Once Again

The Frogs will once again play in the Carter with their fans cheering them on. TCU needs positive energy right now, and being home is precisely what they need. The home energy will help boost their confidence in this game.

TCU returns home to Amon G. Carter Stadium for the Week 7 matchup against BYU :: Brian McLean, On Assignment Photo/KillerFrogs

A Bowl Game is Still not out of Reach

The Frogs' bowl hopes are nowhere near out of reach. They need to win at least three of their last six games to become bowl eligible. Beating BYU would give them a great start. The Frogs will have this on their mind, especially if they want a bowl game.

The Frogs Will Rely on Emani Bailey

Emani Bailey has been one of the only consistent bright spots for this Horned Frog offense. He has been tremendous this season and has really allowed the Frogs to keep games close. If they want to win, they need to give a larger load to Bailey and let him do what he does.

TCU running back Emani Bailey / Tony Beblowski @ Killer Frogs

TCU will win this game 28-21 because of all the factors mentioned. TCU needs this win to get them back on track, and the Frogs will come more prepared. Again, this is just my opinion; I admit I have been wrong this season, but anything could happen, including TCU getting that spark they need. Check out fellow KillerFrogs writer Brett Gibbons' Opponent Preview article for more information on BYU.

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Visit Cougs Daily, BYU's FanNation site, to see what they are saying about the upcoming game with TCU.