In 2024, BYU welcomed TJ Woods as their new offensive line coach, and what a difference he made. He quickly helped the Cougars regain their prowess in the running game, something that had been sorely missed during their debut year in the Big 12 in 2023.
“We should be great. That’s the standard,” Woods declared passionately. “These guys have been putting in the hard work to meet that expectation.”
BYU’s offensive line didn’t just support the run game; they were stellar at protecting the quarterback as well. Jake Retzlaff, for instance, played all 13 games, even after taking a few hits in the Utah match, guiding the team to an impressive 11-2 finish. Retzlaff was only sacked 18 times, with those sacks costing just 95 yards.
Looking ahead to 2025, Woods, alongside a retooled offensive line—since starters like Connor Pay, Caleb Etienne, and Brayden Keim have moved to professional play—are set on outperforming their previous achievements.
On Monday, Woods, with his 23 years of coaching experience, shared his ambitions as the Cougars wrapped up their spring practices. He acknowledged that replacing top talent such as Pay, Etienne, and Keim won’t be easy. However, he enthused that the new unit, filled with raw talent, already “puts them in a better position this year” than last.
“Our goal is to elevate from good to great,” Woods emphasized. “We achieved a lot last year, but for me, great means something more. The challenge I set for them is to be great, and they are working extremely hard to meet that level.”
So who makes up this new lineup? Well, familiar faces like left guard Weylin Lapuaho, center Bruce Mitchell, and right guard Austin Leausa are part of the team. Lapuaho, a senior who initially debuted at Utah State, has played in 23 of BYU’s last 25 games.
Despite briefly contemplating an NFL future alongside other departing players, Lapuaho decided to stay. “I’m really confident in us this year,” he said. “Many of us have experience, and we’ve got the versatility to adapt as needed.”
Lapuaho, sidelined from spring practices due to surgery, assured fans that their squad would be ready without any drop in performance. To add depth, there’s Austin who can play multiple positions, and Bruce Mitchell able to slot in as needed, having stepped up at center when Pay was injured.
One of the major puzzle pieces for 2025 will be replacing Etienne at left tackle. Enter Colorado transfer Isaiah Jatta, expected to take up this mantle.
“Isaiah’s still refining his skills, but we’re pleased with his progression,” Woods noted.
Over on the right, Michigan transfer Andrew Gentry is anticipated to make a substantial impact once he recovers from a foot injury. Gentry’s physical presence, athleticism, and natural football intelligence excite both teammates and coaches alike.
As the new season looms, a projected starting line-up is beginning to form. Seven players—Jatta, Lapuaho, Sfarcioc, Mitchell, Makasini, Leausa, and Gentry—seem set to lead when the season kicks off against Portland State on August 30.
“We’re making strides. Year Two under my leadership naturally brings more focus on ‘how’ rather than ‘what,'” Woods reflected. “The big challenge is filling the void left by great players and leaders from last year. However, we have the personnel to step up.”
Indeed, leadership roles are being assumed by players like Lapuaho, Mitchell, and others who have honed their understanding of intricate team details over the past year.
Among the newcomers, true freshman Andrew Williams is already drawing attention during practices. Other players waiting eagerly for their opportunities include Joe Brown, Jake Fisher, Ethan Thomason, and several others.
The big question looming, however, is reducing the roster. With 22 offensive linemen currently in play, choices must be made to adhere to roster mandates.
“Some tough conversations are around the corner,” Woods admitted. “The reality is, we have more talented players than spots available. Even within the confines of roster limits, these decisions need to be addressed.”
As the final lineup shapes up, the main challenge will be retaining the collective talent pool while ensuring each player gets their chance to shine. With optimism and strategic planning, BYU’s offensive line is poised for another exciting season.
