BYU Football: 5 Cougars That Will Make the Biggest Impacts in 2012

There is definitely no lack of talent in Provo this year, with 18 previous starters returning. So, with all of that skill, who are the five Cougars that will make the biggest impact in 2012?

Although there are many that will make a difference, I narrowed my list down to five. These young men showed tremendous talent on the field last season and are expected to do the same this season.

Riley Nelson, QB

Riley started seven of the final eight games last season, and compiled an impressive 6-1 record. Although he may not play in the NFL, he can make plays on his feet as well as through the air. Nelson has shown leadership that was much needed last year and is expected to do so this year also.

Kyle Van Noy, LB

Whenever the Cougar defense needed a big play, all they had to do is look to Kyle Van Noy. He helped the secondary hold opponents to 112 rushing yards per game, which was 19th in the nation.

As long as Van Noy continues to impress, the BYU defense will be fine.

Cody Hoffman, WR

Cody Hoffman led BYU's receivers in all categories last year with 61 catches, 943 yards and 10 touchdowns, while returning 36 kickoffs for 879 yards. He also returned the first kickoff for a touchdown in BYU history since 1998.

Along with impressive stats, he was nominated to the Yahoo! Sports All-Independent Team, Phil Steele All-Independent First Team and FBS All-Independent Team last season.

Standing at 6'4", Hoffman has shown that he can make highlight-worthy catches, and will most likely impress this season.

Michael Alisa, RB

Michael Alisa was practically unknown at the beginning of last season, but made a splash with 84 yards and a touchdown against Oregon State. Alisa finished the year as the team's second-leading rusher, compiling 85 carries, 455 yards and three touchdowns.

As BYU lost running backs JJ DiLuigi and Bryan Kariya to graduation, Alisa will most likely be the No. 1 option in the rushing attack.

Ross Apo, WR

Ross Apo was the FBS Independent Freshman of the Year last season, and was a member of the Phil Steele All-Independent Second Team.  Seeing action in all 13 games, he caught 34 passes for 453 yards and nine touchdowns. With the duo of Apo and Cody Hoffman, the Cougar offense is on the right track to have plenty of success.