In a significant move, the Brigham Young University (BYU) football team has unveiled its final depth chart for the 2024 season. The Cougars, ranked 17th nationally, are set to face off against the 23rd-ranked Colorado Buffaloes in the Valero Alamo Bowl in San Antonio this Saturday. This matchup marks the first time these two programs have met since the 1988 Freedom Bowl. BYU heads into the game with an impressive 10-2 record, while Colorado aims for double-digit wins with their current 9-3 standing.
Detailed Changes and Player Positions for the Alamo Bowl
The depth chart reveals several notable adjustments, primarily driven by player transfers and injuries. In preparation for the bowl game, BYU has made strategic changes across various positions. Weylin Lapuaho, who previously excelled as a guard, will now start at right tackle. This decision comes after Brayden Keim and Isaiah Jatta were sidelined due to injuries. Jake Eichorn, a transfer from Weber State, takes over as the second-team left tackle behind Caleb Etienne, the First-Team All-Big 12 performer.
At strong safety, Raider Damuni replaces Crew Wakley, who entered the transfer portal. Damuni has already demonstrated his capabilities by starting against Arizona State when Wakley was injured. On the running back front, senior Hinckley Folau Ropati remains sidelined due to injury, leaving true freshman Sione I. Moa as the primary backup to starter LJ Martin. Additional backups include Enoch Nawahine and Pokai Haunga.
The defensive line also saw some shuffling, with David Latu removed from the depth chart after entering the transfer portal. John Nelson and Joshua Singh will fill in at nose tackle. Blake Mangelson retains his position as the starter at tackle, while John Taumoepeau moves up to the second string. Cannon Skidmore will handle long snapping duties, replacing Dalton Riggs, who is exploring transfer options.
Other key players include quarterback Jake Retzlaff and Gerry Bohanon, wide receivers Chase Roberts, Parker Kingston, Darius Lassiter, Cody Hagen, Keelan Marion, and Jojo Phillips, and tight ends Mata’ava Ta’ase, Ray Paulo, Keanu Hill, and Ryner Swanson. Defensive ends Tyler Batty and Bodie Schoonover, along with outside edge defenders Logan Lutui and Isaiah Bagnah, round out the lineup.
From a journalist's perspective, this depth chart adjustment highlights the adaptability and resilience of BYU's coaching staff. Despite facing challenges like injuries and transfers, the team remains competitive and well-prepared for a crucial bowl game. It underscores the importance of versatility and depth within a roster, ensuring that even in times of change, the team can still perform at its best. The upcoming Alamo Bowl promises to be an exciting test of BYU's readiness and strategy.