BYU football: Five fall newcomers that can have an immediate impact
By Ron Jensen
Fall camp is just days away from starting for BYU Football. Many veterans will lead and contribute, but some newcomers may steal the spotlight in coming weeks.
This season, BYU Football will see a variety of new faces in starting roles and different positions. Many players will see an increase in playing time and responsibility compared to prior seasons.
This article isn’t about them.
Today, let’s discuss the fall newcomers who can make an impact this season. A “newcomer” is someone who is entirely new to the program this fall. And “impact” isn’t just playing time or contribution. Impact players instantly make the Cougars a better team because of their presence.
The following are five players that can fit that mold:
Dallin Holker
Lehi Tight End Dallin Holker (6’5, 222, Fr.) did incredible things for the Pioneers last season. He scored 22 touchdowns and amassed 1,766 receiving yards with 97 catches.
He arrived in Provo after spring ball to enroll in some classes at the university and join players for summer workouts.
He didn’t disappoint.
Wide receiver Micah Simon commented that, “We’ll get those incoming freshmen coming in June but Holker is here now. I feel like he came in and helped right away. To have the size he has but to also be able to move the way he does will be a big addition to our offense. With the right coaching with Steve Clark and Jeff Grimes, I feel he can be a special player for us.”
Holker presents a dilemma for defensive backs with his size and speed. In almost any situation, he creates a mismatch that will give defensive coordinators nightmares. The thought of having Matt Bushman or Moroni Laulu-Pututau with him on the field at the same time should make ffensive coordinator Jeff Grimes drool, and opposing coverages extremely nervous.