There is always some sort of a home field advantage.  Whether it is being familiar with the game day routine, or the crowd, or not having to travel.  I always felt so comfortable playing in Lavelle Edwards Stadium.  I would arrive at the stadium walk to my locker, go get taped-up and drink a Powerade.  Then I would put on my socks, pants and cleats and walk out the tunnel to the field.  When I got to the field, I would walk down the home sideline to the opposite goal line, across to the center of the field and then make my way back to the other side of the field.  I would see the same stadium employees in the corners entrances.  I could recognize each dip in the field and I loved the stillness of the stadium before it becomes filled with anticipation and noise.  I know every athlete has their own specific ritual or tradition and that routine always felt better when we played at home.

The crowd also can have an effect on the game.  The noise generated from 64,000 screaming fans can confuse and distract and grants the home team a little emotional boost.  I have been on the field when the crowds energy was electric.  When you hear 64,000 fans are in your corner, willing you towards success it can elevate your performance.  I also loved the sound of the Cougars growl after a big play.

If you don’t believe in the emotional effects of playing at home.  Here are a few statistical facts.

Scoring margin at home:

• 2008______+24 points
• 2007______+17.33 points
• 2006______+35.16 points (BYU record)
• 2005______+6.8 points

All-time record at home:

• 264-126-6 (67.4%)

Stadium record since 1982 expansion:

• 122-39 (75.8%)

Coach Mendenhall made it his mission to become a dominate force at home.  He instituted the scrimmages in the stadium, making it clear to his players that when we come to our home stadium we play harder, faster, and more precise.  If we didn’t perform to his expectation, then we would return the next day to do it again.  He had Coach Lavell Edwards speak to us about the long history of dominate home wins and the Cougars storied winning tradition.  It has been Bronco’s mission since taking over to restore the programs traditions in excellence and home field dominace.