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BYU Football: Reinforcements are on the way for the Defensive Line

By Ron Jensen

GLENDALE, AZ - SEPTEMBER 03: Defensive lineman Tevita Mo'Unga #50 of the Brigham Young Cougars takes the field before the college football game against the Arizona Wildcats at University of Phoenix Stadium on September 3, 2016 in Glendale, Arizona. The Cougars defeated the Wildcats 18-16. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
GLENDALE, AZ - SEPTEMBER 03: Defensive lineman Tevita Mo'Unga #50 of the Brigham Young Cougars takes the field before the college football game against the Arizona Wildcats at University of Phoenix Stadium on September 3, 2016 in Glendale, Arizona. The Cougars defeated the Wildcats 18-16. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /
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Defensive line play has been decent so far this season, but depth appears to be an issue. With the return of Tevita Mo’Unga and Wayne Tei-Kirby, help is on the way.

One of the questions going into the 2018 season for BYU football was how the defensive line would perform after losing several starters to graduation and position changes.  So far, they’ve done surprisingly well, considering the situation.

Returners Corbin Kaufusi and Khyiris Tonga, along with Trajan Pili and Bracken El-Bakri have adequately manned the front.  However, with the powerhouse programs left to play on the schedule, it is clear that reinforcements are necessary.

Recently, great news was announced concerning the defensive front.  Tevita Mo’Unga (6’3, 250, Jr.) and Wayne Tei-Kirby (6’3, 305, So.), who were held out from fall camp for undisclosed reasons, are officially on the active roster again.

It is still unclear when we’ll see either of these two take the field for the Cougars.  They need to acclimate and fulfill the required number of days to be able to participate in game action.  One thing is certain, the sooner the better.

Tevita Mo’Unga has played two seasons for the Cougars.  As a freshman, he made 14 tackles and played in all 13 games.  His sophomore year he played in three contests, stating two and making 7 tackles.  Mo’Unga obviously has size, but also possesses an uncanny quickness and agility.

Wayne Tei-Kirby brings a slightly different skill set to the table, strength and brute force.  Tei-Kirby started his career with Oregon in 2016, playing in 9 games and making 11 tackles.  After sitting out 2017 because of the NCAA transfer policy, he has three years of eligibility for the Cougars.

Having these two available not only relieves the current starters, but also adds unique elements to an already stout defensive line. It should bring plenty of optimism to Cougar Nation. Optimism that’s in short supply after the loss to Cal.

While when the two will play is unknown, if one or both make a cameo this Saturday the timing couldn’t be better.  Wisconsin has arguably the best offensive line in the nation, and adding more capable forces in the middle of the BYU defense would give them a much-needed boost.

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