Built for Dominance: BYU’s Linebackers Redefining the Sitake Era as BYU enters the 2025 college football season, there’s growing consensus among fans and analysts alike: this year’s linebacker corps might be the best group Kalani Sitake has assembled since taking over as head coach in 2016. Combining leadership, elite talent, depth, and a revamped recruiting strategy, the linebackers are poised to anchor a defense built not just for Big 12 survival—but dominance.The transformation began in 2024, when despite losing veteran Ben Bywater to a season-ending shoulder injury, BYU’s linebacking unit didn’t falter. Max Tooley stepped into a leadership role, providing experience, toughness, and the kind of field presence that keeps a defense glued together. Transfer AJ Vongphachanh, coming in from Utah State, proved to be a game-changer, showcasing high football IQ and relentless pursuit of the ball. His immediate impact underscored BYU’s new emphasis on bringing in experienced, game-ready players from the transfer portal.Perhaps the most exciting development, however, is the emergence of young talent. Isaiah Glasker and Ace Kaufusi both flashed enormous potential, playing beyond their years and giving BYU the kind of depth that’s often reserved for powerhouse programs. Their growth last season made it clear that this group wasn’t just built around one or two stars—it’s a complete unit.Adding even more firepower, the Cougars brought in Oregon transfer Harrison Taggart. With his blend of size, speed, and versatility, Taggart is expected to be a key contributor, whether it’s stopping the run, dropping into coverage, or creating havoc on blitz packages. His presence raises the ceiling of an already stacked linebacker room and creates healthy competition that pushes everyone to a higher level.The 2024 recruiting class added more fuel to the fire. BYU landed promising prospects like Sefo Akuila and Naki Tuakoi, both known for their athleticism and physicality. Sitake and his staff made it clear: the days of simply hoping recruits pan out down the road are over. The new mantra is “plug and play,” and this linebacker unit embodies that philosophy.It’s worth noting that Sitake has coached some elite linebackers during his tenure—Fred Warner and Sione Takitaki both made their way to the NFL and left lasting legacies in Provo. However, what separates this current group isn’t just individual talent, but the depth and balance across the board. There are no glaring weaknesses, only layers of capable players ready to step in and make plays.In a conference known for high-powered offenses and grueling schedules, having a dominant linebacker corps is more than a luxury—it’s a necessity. BYU’s 2025 unit appears ready for the challenge. From seasoned veterans to rising stars, and now impact transfers, Kalani Sitake may very well be overseeing the most complete and dangerous linebacker group of his coaching era.If this group lives up to its potential, they won’t just redefine the Sitake era—they’ll help redefine BYU’s identity in the Big 12.
