Paki Finau didn’t allow a single sack in 229 pass blocking snaps last year for the Washington Huskies, and now he’s locking down the blindside for BYU. The Cougars just dropped their first depth chart for the 2026 season ahead of Saturday’s kickoff against Utah Tech, and this move on the offensive line is a massive deal for Bear Bachmeier and the whole offense. Game week is officially here, and the depth chart is packed with surprises and serious talent ready to hit LaVell Edwards Stadium.
The O-Line Just Got a Major Upgrade
Forget the talk about Andrew Gentry sliding over to left tackle after Isaiah Jatta left for the NFL. The coaches went a completely different route, and it was a brilliant one thanks to the transfer portal. Landing Finau from the Washington Huskies changes everything for Bachmeier’s protection. This guy is a beast. Last year at Washington, he played almost every offensive line position except center, mainly at left guard, and his pass blocking numbers are insane. Zero sacks given up in 229 snaps? That’s an unbelievable stat. The only real question mark is his limited experience at left tackle, with just 23 career snaps there in college. But coaches are all in! Offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick was already saying in spring that Finau was running with the ones, and the staff has “loved him” since high school recruiting. Talk about a vote of confidence!
Freshman Phenom and a New-Look Receiver Group
While Finau protects the QB, it looks like a new set of weapons will be catching passes. Legend Glasker, a speedy first-year player, has absolutely exploded onto the scene. He’s not just listed among the starting wide receivers, but he’s also an option for kick returns! Coaches are raving about how well he’s digested the playbook, and he’s been running with the ones for most of camp. This kid is for real, becoming the first freshman receiver to start under Fesi Sitake. He’s joined by Kyler Kasper, a 6-foot-6 transfer from Oregon who immediately becomes one of BYU’s tallest receivers ever. With all the turnover, Jojo Phillips is also set to benefit big time and could become Bachmeier’s new favorite target. This receiving corps is going to be electric.
Co-Starters at Tight End and a Defensive Shift
It looks like we’re getting a two-headed monster at tight end. Walker Lyons, the USC transfer many thought would be Bachmeier’s main security blanket, is listed as “or” with Roger Saleapaga, who transferred from Oregon. Both are going to see significant snaps. This suggests Roderick is ready to lean heavily on a “12 personnel” style offense, meaning two tight ends on the field frequently. On the defensive side, there’s a new “sheriff in town” in the middle of the defense, stepping up after Jack Kelly’s departure for the NFL. You just know that spot is going to be crucial.
BYU kicks off against Utah Tech this Saturday at LaVell Edwards Stadium. This first game is everything to set the tone for the season, and with all these new faces, it’s going to be wild to see how they perform!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
Leave a Reply