Monday saw the beginning of another week of BYU Fall Camp and another day closer to Nebraska, here are some new developments as we approach the season opener:
Offensive Line Adds Key Pieces
Kyle Johnson and Tuni Kanuch began participating in practice after a period of absence. Last year, the pair started at left and right guard respectively. Their return answers some questions that the team had about the rotation of the offensive line. When asked about Tuni’s return, Coach Anae joked, “I heard he was out there, but I didn’t really notice him. That must mean he is doing a good job right?”
The first two weeks of fall camp saw a battle for back up center between Jacob Jimenez and Parker Dawe, after an impressive showing in Saturday’s scrimmage, the position was taken by Dawe. Coach Anae said of his performance, “After our deal in the stadium, Parker Dawe has moved up on the depth chart at center.”
Passing Game Has Off Day
Even though his performance of fall camp has been MVP worthy, even Taysom Hill can have a rough day at practice. During the short time that the media was able to observe, the star QB had a hard time finding his timing with receivers during 11-0n-11 drills, throwing the ball before their heads were turned which resulted in a few balls that almost ended up as interceptions. Hill has certainly had an impressive performance in fall camp and has notably improved as a passer. So while it is being noted, it is nothing to panic about.
Two Scholarships Available
Bronco Mendenhall noted that there were two scholarships available to give to walk-ons. The five most likely candidates are RB Nate Carter, OL Parker Dawe, S Grant Jones, LB Scott Huntsman, and WR Mitchell Juergens. The two most likely candidates are Mitchell Juergens and Nate Carter for their contributions last year, while the remaining three moved into the two deep during this season.
While it is certainly a hard decision for the staff to make, earning a scholarship is very significant for a walk-on by rewarding them for their hard work and contribution to the team. During a post-practice interview, Parker Dawe talked about his role as a walk-on and what it means to make the two-deep, “When I first got here, I was just super excited to be here and grateful. Since then I’ve realized that I can play this game and compete with these guys. Since then, I’ve wanted to prove to coaches that I’m a player that’s worth a scholarship.”
Miscellaneous Notes
Mitch Mathews participated in 11-on-11 drills showing that his progress while rehabilitating from hernia surgery has improved significantly.
Travis Tuiloma was helped off the field toward the end of practice, BYU spokesperson Brett Pyne said that it wasn’t any cause for concern and he should be back for practice the rest of the week.
Takenaka saw some time at Sam LB today and made an impressive play where he sacked Tanner Mangum.
Kai Nacua, Dayan Lake, and Moses Kaumatule made some impressive individual plays on defense, the first two coming close to intercepting balls during 11-on-11, while Kaumatule had an impressive sack on Taysom Hill.
The trend of NFL scouts coming to practice continued with a scout for the San Diego Chargers being spotted down on the practice field.
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