How Big is Losing Collie from '09 Roster?

The news that Austin Collie is moving on to the NFL doesn’t come as a huge surprise.
The unsettling finish on the season probably pushed him toward his decision. Besides, as I pointed out in a Dec. 12, 2008 blog, his stock probably won’t get higher. He already led the nation in receiving.
His departure, though, is a major blow to BYU’s effort to win back the conference championship. Not only was he the team’s best player, he was also an emotional leader. He’s not a guy you replace by just plugging in the backup.
Although I do think BYU will be in contention for the Mountain West title next year, the odds of doing that just got smaller. Collie was so good that he made great plays even when every opposing team keyed on him. Replacing that sort of talent won’t be easy.
On the other hand, everyone loses key players. Exactly how big is the loss? Will it affect BYU more than Utah losing Brian Johnson to graduation?