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Provo • Cougar safety Andrew Rich always has dreamed of returning an interception "to the house" at LaVell Edwards Stadium in his final home game playing for BYU.
He almost got there.
The senior from Washington Terrace's Bonneville High had two interceptions in Saturday's 40-7 win over New Mexico, including one he returned to the 1-yard-line. However, a personal foul on BYU brought the play back, so maybe Rich getting caught was all for the better.
"I wish I was faster, A," he said, listing reasons why he didn't get to the end zone.
The Cougars forced four turnovers and held New Mexico to 259 yards, including 100 rushing.
"To be able to stay rolling means a lot to us," Rich said.
Nose tackle Eathyn Manumaleuna also had an interception, while Matt Putnam forced a fumble that Brandon Bradley recovered.
Linebacker Shane Hunter led the Cougars with 11 tackles.
Lucky 13
After the game, the Cougars honored 13 seniors with the traditional blanket who were playing in their final home game. They were OL Nick Alletto, WR Luke Ashworth, DB Landon Jaussi, DB Brian Logan, LB Zeke Mendenhall, K Mitch Payne, WR B.J. Peterson, DL Vic So'oto, OL Jason Speredon and LB A.J. Van Valkenburg, Rich, Bradley and Hunter.
Briefly
Former BYU defensive back Ben Criddle carried the alumni flag onto the field. Safety Travis Uale brought out the team flag. … Wind was gusting from the south at 29 miles per hour at kickoff. … The Cougars rushed for more than 200 yards for the fourth straight time.