In the first game since it was announced that Brigham Young Cougars outside linebacker Jordan Pendleton would miss the rest of the season with a knee injury, fellow outside linebacker Kyle Van Noy paid tribute to Pendleton in a way only he could--with some Van Noise.
The sophomore linebacker played, arguably, his best game of the season. He recorded a career high 10 tackles (9 solo) to lead the team. He also had one sack, two tackles for loss, and one forced fumble.
Following the game, Van Noy explained that Pendleton was a big reason for his outstanding production in the game: “I wanted to lay it all out on the line for him. I respect that kid more than anyone can imagine.”
Van Noy helped set the tone early. On Idaho’s first possession, Van Noy made a third down stop to force a Vandal punt. He did the same on the Vandals’ third possession of the game, as well, with a five-yard tackle for loss.
These stops by Van Noy probably made Idaho feel the same way Van Noy did when he learned about Pendleton’s plight. Van Noy said he was “depressed” and that “my heart sank” when Pendleton called to share the news.
While Van Noy’s stat totals and overall play was impressive, all Van Noy wanted to do was play for someone like Pendleton. “I know he would die to be here. I want to play for my teammates,” Van Noy said.
With Pendleton gone for the year, the defense will look to Van Noy to fill much of the void. Van Noy is the player who most resembles Pendleton’s athleticism, tenacity, and heart. Pendleton and Van Noy rank number 1 and 2, respectively, in tackles-for-loss this year (8.5 and 8), and they are tied for first on the team with four sacks each.
While it is just one game, as long as Van Noy continues to “have [Pendleton] in [his] heart,” it appears, the BYU defense will continue to feel Pendleton’s presence and see his production on the field.
The Editor appreciates all feedback. He can be reached via email at bluecougarfootball@gmail.com
The sophomore linebacker played, arguably, his best game of the season. He recorded a career high 10 tackles (9 solo) to lead the team. He also had one sack, two tackles for loss, and one forced fumble.
Following the game, Van Noy explained that Pendleton was a big reason for his outstanding production in the game: “I wanted to lay it all out on the line for him. I respect that kid more than anyone can imagine.”
Van Noy helped set the tone early. On Idaho’s first possession, Van Noy made a third down stop to force a Vandal punt. He did the same on the Vandals’ third possession of the game, as well, with a five-yard tackle for loss.
These stops by Van Noy probably made Idaho feel the same way Van Noy did when he learned about Pendleton’s plight. Van Noy said he was “depressed” and that “my heart sank” when Pendleton called to share the news.
While Van Noy’s stat totals and overall play was impressive, all Van Noy wanted to do was play for someone like Pendleton. “I know he would die to be here. I want to play for my teammates,” Van Noy said.
With Pendleton gone for the year, the defense will look to Van Noy to fill much of the void. Van Noy is the player who most resembles Pendleton’s athleticism, tenacity, and heart. Pendleton and Van Noy rank number 1 and 2, respectively, in tackles-for-loss this year (8.5 and 8), and they are tied for first on the team with four sacks each.
While it is just one game, as long as Van Noy continues to “have [Pendleton] in [his] heart,” it appears, the BYU defense will continue to feel Pendleton’s presence and see his production on the field.
The Editor appreciates all feedback. He can be reached via email at bluecougarfootball@gmail.com
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