PROVO — Before the season, BYU coach Kalani Sitake expressed excitement about the potential of the true freshmen and redshirt freshmen on the roster.
Three games into the season, it’s become clear why.
In the Cougars’ 24-21 victory over Wisconsin last Saturday, a bevy of first-year players made big contributions, including three freshmen on the offensive line — center James Empey, left guard Keanu Saleapaga and left tackle Brady Christensen.
At skill positions, tight end Dallin Holker, wide receivers Gunner Romney and Dax Milne, and running back Lopini Katoa have seen considerable action.
Defensively, freshmen defensive linemen Devin Kaufusi and Earl Tuioti-Mariner, and freshmen defensive backs Keenan Ellis, Isaiah Herron, D’Angelo Mandell and Malik Moore have been part of the rotation.