Jeff Hansen’s Expert Analysis on BYU Football’s Upcoming Fall Camp and Second Big12 Season
Aug 02, 2024
As BYU football kicks off fall camp, there are several intriguing storylines and position battles to keep an eye on. From the quarterback competition to the development of the offensive line, the Cougars have some important questions to answer before the season opener.
Quarterback Battle Heats Up
One of the most closely watched competitions will be at quarterback between Jake Retzlaff and Gerry Bohanon. While Retzlaff appeared to have an edge coming out of spring ball, a healthy Bohanon could change the dynamic.
Bohanon, a transfer from Baylor, was limited in spring due to injury but is now reportedly back to full strength. At 6'3" 235 lbs with dual-threat ability, he brings an intriguing skill set to the offense. His experience and leadership could give him an advantage if he's able to showcase his talents.
Meanwhile, Retzlaff impressed coaches with his command of the offense and decision-making in spring, not throwing a single interception. His leadership and grasp of the system shouldn't be overlooked.
Ultimately, having two capable options is a good problem for BYU. In today's college football landscape, depth at quarterback is crucial. Both Retzlaff and Bohanon bring different strengths to the table, giving the coaching staff some flexibility.
Offensive Line Development
The success of whoever wins the QB job will depend heavily on improved offensive line play. After some struggles last season, the unit is looking to take a big step forward under new position coach TJ Woods.
Center Connor Pay noted there's been a night and day difference in execution and understanding of assignments compared to last year. The biggest question mark appears to be at right tackle. Caleb Etienne has all the physical tools but needs to find more consistency. Transfer Isaiah Jatta could push for playing time there as well. Solidifying that spot will be key for the offense to reach its potential.
Running Back Depth
The status of highly-touted freshman LJ Martin will be closely monitored early in camp as he returns from injury. While Martin is expected back at some point early in the season, BYU has some intriguing options to lean on in the meantime.
Hinckley Ropati brings a physical running style and has impressed teammates with his work ethic. Miles Davis has flashed big-play ability when given opportunities. And freshman Sione Moa could be a wildcard to watch after enrolling early.
The Cougars should have enough depth to weather any absence from Martin. But getting the talented freshman integrated into the offense will be important for reaching their ceiling on that side of the ball.
Defensive Line Questions
On defense, the interior of the line remains a question mark after some struggles against the run last season. John Nelson and David Latu return with experience, but BYU will need more consistent play from that group.
Keep an eye on Sani Tuala potentially sliding inside from defensive end to provide a boost after impressing in spring ball with his athleticism at 280+ pounds.
Generating more of a pass rush will be crucial as well. Freshman Ephraim Asiata has the potential to make an immediate impact as a situational rusher. Overall, this unit's development will be key to the defense taking a step forward in 2023.
Freshmen to Watch
While most true freshmen face an uphill battle to early playing time, there are a few names generating buzz who could see the field quickly:
- Safety Tommy Prassas has impressed coaches with his instincts and could push for a starting job
- Defensive end Ephraim Asiata brings pass rush potential
- Running back Sione Moa enrolled early and could factor into the backfield rotation
- Linebacker Siale Esera was one of the top recruits in the class and has the athleticism to contribute early
Getting contributions from the freshman class would provide a nice boost, especially on defense where BYU is looking to improve.
Keys for Offensive Improvement
After an inconsistent 2023 season offensively, there will be pressure on coordinator Aaron Roderick to get more production across the board. A few areas to watch:
- Establishing a consistent running game to take pressure off the QB
- Getting the tight ends more involved in the passing game
- Improved red zone efficiency
- Limiting turnovers and negative plays
- More explosive plays in the passing game
With an experienced offensive line and some intriguing skill position talent, the pieces are there for BYU to field a much-improved offense. Settling the quarterback competition and finding the right mix of personnel will be crucial during fall camp.
Outlook for 2024
As BYU enters its second season of Big 12 play, there's cautious optimism surrounding the program. While there are certainly questions to answer, particularly on defense, the talent level continues to improve.
The schedule sets up favorably early, giving the Cougars a chance to build momentum before conference play. How quickly the offense gels and the defense improves will likely determine if BYU can make noise in their new league.
With an experienced coaching staff and some intriguing young talent joining the program, BYU has the potential to surprise in 2024 if some of the question marks are answered positively in fall camp. The next few weeks of practice will go a long way toward setting expectations for the season ahead.
