BYU Football Relies on Freshmen to Maintain Momentum

The Cougars are leaning on young talent as they look to bounce back against Arizona State this weekend.

Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in Football

BYU Football Relies on Freshmen to Maintain Momentum

Live Poll

Should local college teams prioritize playing younger freshmen over more experienced upperclassmen?

BYU football is turning to its freshman class to bolster team performance following recent injury-related roster shifts. The Cougars currently maintain a 6-1 record as they prepare to face Arizona State.

Why it matters

The infusion of young players is critical for BYU as they navigate injuries to upperclassmen and attempt to recover from their loss to UCF last weekend.

Freshman standout Legend Glasker has recorded 28 receptions for 498 yards and four touchdowns, while Journee Tonga has added 182 rushing yards and two scores. Defensively, Kennan Pula and Braxton Lindsey have each notched nine total tackles, with Lindsey contributing one sack.

The players

Legend Glasker

A freshman wide receiver for BYU who attended Lehi High School.

Journee Tonga

A freshman running back for BYU who hails from Lawndale, California.

Kennan Pula

A freshman player for BYU who previously played at Lone Peak High School.

Braxton Lindsey

A freshman defender for BYU who is originally from Rogers, Arkansas.

Bott Mulitalo

A freshman offensive tackle for BYU who attended Lone Peak High School.

The details

Coaching staff have implemented specialized training to help these transitioning high school athletes adapt to the collegiate level. The squad is working to integrate these younger players into starting roles, including Bott Mulitalo, who recently secured a starting position at offensive tackle.

Kennan Pula attended his first spring ball practice earlier this year.
BYU lost a football game against UCF last weekend.
BYU will play Arizona State this Saturday.

Season Trajectory

Relying on freshman depth is a major pivot from the veteran roster that secured the high-profile win against Notre Dame. This shift in personnel strategy defines the team's ability to maintain its 6-1 record throughout the remainder of the season.

The integration of freshmen like Glasker and Tonga directly impacts the team's offensive efficiency and rotation depth. Fantasy observers and fans should monitor these snap counts closely as the Cougars finalize their lineup for the upcoming game against Arizona State.

The takeaway

Developing depth through early playing time for freshmen is essential for sustained success in a long collegiate season. Adapting to collegiate speed remains the primary hurdle for young athletes moving directly from the high school ranks.