BYU vs. Houston: 4 Players to Watch in Thursday Night Showdown

BYU will have a great chance to gain national recognition this Thursday when they host Houston (7 p.m. MDT, ESPN). The Cougars are coming off a huge road win against Texas but get another big test against UH.

Houston bounced back last week, putting up 47 points in a shutout win over Grambling State. They lost their opener but will seek revenge after last year's 47-46 defeat to BYU.

Both teams will field talented playmakers, but who should you keep your eye on? Here are four players that will definitely make a difference in Thursday's game. 

Adam Hine (RB, BYU)

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Adam Hine's numbers in the win over Texas weren't too flashy—he carried the ball only four times for 29 yards—but he definitely made his touches count. He averaged over seven yards per carry and scored twice.

For a guy who was overshadowed by Jamaal Williams and Taysom Hill (who combined for 43 carries for 188 yards) in BYU's rushing game, Hine was extremely efficient. He's the type of player that doesn't get a whole lot of credit but will make you pay in the red zone. 

John O'Korn (QB, Houston)

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John O'Korn had anything but a flashy start to his sophomore season. In his team's opener, he threw four interceptions and has thrown for only one touchdown in the first two games combined.

There's no doubt he has the talent to succeed—he threw for over 3,000 yards and 28 touchdowns last season—but things just haven't clicked yet. For all we know, he could show up Thursday out of his slump and ready to play.

BYU knows how good he can be. In the BYU vs. Houston game last season, O'Korn threw for 383 yards and three touchdowns, and he was on the verge of leading his team to an incredible victory. Perhaps he will get revenge with a huge game this time around. 

Efrem Oliphant (LB, Houston)

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Efrem Oliphant tallied 24 tackles combined in Houston's first two games, and he has been a huge boost to the Cougar defense. He has led the team in tackles in back-to-back games and has definitely been the defense's best player.

He will have his hands full while trying to contain Taysom Hill and the BYU offense this week. We will have to wait and see how well he does. 

Taysom Hill (QB, BYU)

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Taysom Hill has undoubtedly been BYU's most recognizable player this season, and he is gaining more and more national attention every week. After compiling 280 total yards and three touchdowns against Texas, he cemented himself as a dark-horse candidate for the Heisman.

Can Houston stop him? Hill has improved as a passer, completing over 70 percent of his throws this season. When his running ability is combined with his arm, it makes it difficult for defenses to stop him.

A big game on Thursday would be huge for BYU as a whole, but it would also get Hill increased exposure and recognition.