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BYU Football: Position Preview – Offensive Line

By Ron Jensen

PROVO, UT - SEPTEMBER 16: General view of the BYU Cougars offensive line during a game against the Wisconsin Badgers at LaVell Edwards Stadium on September 16, 2017 in Provo, Utah. (Photo by Gene Sweeney Jr/Getty Images) *** Local Caption ***
PROVO, UT - SEPTEMBER 16: General view of the BYU Cougars offensive line during a game against the Wisconsin Badgers at LaVell Edwards Stadium on September 16, 2017 in Provo, Utah. (Photo by Gene Sweeney Jr/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** /
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PROVO, UT – OCTOBER 13: The offensive line of the BYU Cougars sets for a play during a game against the Oregon State Beavers during the first half of a college football game October 13, 2012 at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo, Utah. (Photo by George Frey/Getty Images)
PROVO, UT – OCTOBER 13: The offensive line of the BYU Cougars sets for a play during a game against the Oregon State Beavers during the first half of a college football game October 13, 2012 at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo, Utah. (Photo by George Frey/Getty Images) /

The Replacements

With 2017 starters Tejan Koroma, Tuni Kanuch, and Keyan Norman all lost to graduation, BYU football must alter their line-up.  Despite the need to restock, the cupboard is by no means bare for new offensive line coach Ryan Pugh.

Brady Christensen (6’5, 285) seems to have taken over at left tackle.  Christensen was a long and lanky recruit out of high school that returned from his mission bigger and stronger than before.  The fact that he’s moved Shoaf from this position shows the incredible faith coaches have in him.

James Empey (6’4, 290) presently has a hold on the center spot.  This former Ute commit redshirted last year in an attempt to acclimate after returning from a mission.  It seems it worked, as he demonstrates a quick grasp of the new schemes and surprisingly polished skills.

Tristen Hoge (6’5, 305) has been a force at right guard. The Notre Dame transfer is eligible and hasn’t hesitated to show his worth to BYU football.  Don’t be surprised if this former No. 1 ranked high school center slides back to the spot if the need arises.

The Depth

Chandon Herring (6’7, 294) currently backs up the right guard position, Austin Chambers (6’5, 307) the left guard, and Kieffer Longson (6’7, 305) at right tackle.

Longson is a former 4-star recruit that played sparingly last season.  He’s been back for a year from his mission, and should be ready to contribute more in 2018.

From what I have seen, Herring and Chambers are good. Really good. Both are strong and technically sound. Along with Longson, I believe Coach Pugh could confidently start all three of these players without worrying about a drop off.

Jacob Jimenez (6’5, 300) serves as the backup center.  Jimenez returns from a serious knee injury that kept him from play in 2017.  After showing great promise before the injury, he looks to regain his previous condition and contribute for the unit.

That gives the Cougars nine men up front. Nine highly talented offensive linemen. Is it enough? Only time will tell. A few more wouldn’t hurt.

One thing is certain. A great offense needs a great offensive line, and BYU football just might have one.

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