“Premier Pass Rusher”: Kalani Sitake Raves About Tausili Akana’s Fit At BYU
BYU head coach Kalani Sitake is making it loud and clear — Tausili Akana isn’t just a recruit, he’s a revelation.
In a recent interview that sent Cougar Nation into a frenzy, Sitake couldn’t contain his excitement about Akana’s arrival in Provo. The former 4-star edge rusher has been turning heads with his size, speed, and relentless motor since stepping on campus, and Sitake believes he may already be one of the most explosive defenders in BYU’s program.
“He’s a premier pass rusher,” Sitake said, smiling. “There’s no doubt in my mind — Tausili fits what we want to do on defense perfectly. He’s going to cause a lot of problems for opposing quarterbacks.”
Akana, standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing in at 235 pounds, is bringing elite athleticism and a chip on his shoulder. A former Hawaii native with a national profile, he had offers from powerhouse programs like Oklahoma, Texas, and Oregon. But he shocked the college football world by choosing BYU — a decision driven by both family ties and the opportunity to become a cornerstone in a rising defense.
Coaches and players alike are raving about his performance in spring workouts. Defensive coordinator Jay Hill called him “violent, disciplined, and dangerous off the edge,” noting that his footwork and instincts are beyond his years.
Akana’s fit in BYU’s evolving defensive scheme is expected to be immediate and impactful. With the Cougars transitioning to the Big 12, Sitake knows he needs game-changers — and he believes he’s found one.
“We’re not here just to compete,” Sitake said. “We’re here to dominate. And with players like Tausili, the future looks scary — in the best way possible.”
