Last fall, BYU football exceeded expectations and emerged not only as a Big 12 title contender but also a strong candidate for a place within the College Football Playoff. Buoyed by strong defense, BYU rose as high as number 6 in the CFP rankings, and finished the season 13th in the AP poll after walloping Colorado in the Alamo Bowl 36-14.
BYU finished the season ranked 13th in total defense by leading the nation with the most interceptions per game, and leading the big 12 with the lowest passing touchdowns allowed and lowest allowed pass efficiency. BYU was also among the most efficient offenses - ranking at number 31.
BYU will see a lot of returning production on both sides of the ball by bringing back their linebacker corps in its entirety, as well as keeping LJ Martin, Chase Roberts, Keelon Marion, and Parker Kingston.
Another season means another instance when we have to say goodbye to graduating seniors as well as players entering the transfer portal - and hello to incoming freshmen and additions from the transfer portal.
With the departures of Tyler Batty, John Nelson, and Blake Mangelson, BYU’s biggest gap to fill on the defensive side of the ball is at the defensive line. Through the transfer portal, BYU brought in three defensive lineman including defensive tackle Keanu Tanuvasa from the University of Utah (thanks guys!) as well as edge rusher Tausili Akana from Texas.
On the offensive end, Carsen Ryan from the University of Utah, (thanks again Utes!) was a phenomenal addition from the transfer portal. Aaron Roderick will undoubtedly be looking to incorporate tight ends more fully into his offense after a season in which tight ends were hardly featured.
There were times last season when BYU’s offense really clicked, and scoring seemed relatively easy (Think when BYU led 21-7 in the 1st quarter versus Baylor), but there were also times when BYU’s offense was completely stagnant (Think scoring only 3 points in the second half versus Baylor.)
Carsen Ryan will play a big part this season in overcoming that challenge. Effective use of a talented tight-end will allow BYU to have more flexibility with play-calling and more potential for an offensive spark from that position.
BYU also won the signature of transfer student and former 4-star recruit Andrew Gentry from Michigan University. Entering college play, he was the 11th ranked player for his position, and the 2nd ranked player at his position in his state according to 247 Sports.
Strengthening the offensive line opens up so many possibilities for offenses, and giving Jake Retzlaff more time to throw will mean an even better offense.
Who should BYU focus on signing in the spring transfer portal window?
Keanu Tanuvasa and Tausili Akana have given BYU fans cause to be excited about BYU’s defensive line, but defensive tackle is still a position that BYU lacks depth in. A little depth goes a long way at the defensive tackle position, so don’t be surprised if BYU targets another one in the spring transfer window.
BYU has a strong and promising secondary that includes Raider Damuni, Tommy Prassas, Tanner Wall, Therrion Alexander III and Johnathan Kabeya.
However, cornerback is a position that I also think could use a little more depth. BYU tried to recruit cornerback Cameron Calhoun from Utah after he entered the transfer portal, but he ultimately transferred to Alabama. BYU will no doubt target another cornerback should one become available that fits well with Jay Hill's scheme.
BYU's transfer class is laden with talented players - many of whom are extremely underrated. These players have the capacity to be difference-makers in their respective positions and turn in production in areas that BYU was otherwise lacking last year. Add these players to a team with a ton of returning production, and you have yourself a recipe for success. Expect BYU to do great things this year.