BYU defense progressing under Mendenhall's watch


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PROVO — With the re-emergence of senior quarterback Taysom Hill, much of the focus during spring practices for BYU has been on the offensive side of the ball. Out from the spotlight, BYU’s defense has steadily progressed under head coach Bronco Mendenhall, and new players are starting to make their mark on the field.

This offseason, Mendenhall announced that he would resume his previous role of directly overseeing the defense, which includes play-calling duties during games. Defensive players have noticed the difference now that Mendenhall is more hands-on and involved in the day-to-day activities.

Sophomore linebacker Fred Warner explained the difference in spring practices with Mendenhall back in charge. “I feel like the biggest change is just our discipline level,” Warner said. “There are a lot of things he’s enforcing. The biggest thing is probably effort...making sure you’re making a great habit of running to the football constantly.”

With the defense back under his watchful eye, Mendenhall explained why he is pleased with the progress so far in spring practices.

“A lot of optimism, a lot of hard work,” Mendenhall said. “No signs of momentum slowing or guys getting tired at this point. It’s very competitive … still a lot of work to do, but I like where we stand.”

While discussing the defense, Mendenhall specifically mentioned junior linebacker Sae Tautu for having a productive spring camp and showing improved play.

“Sae Tautu has had one of the best springs as any player on our team so far,” Mendenhall said. “I really like what he’s doing.”

Warner, who has been watching practice from the sideline because he is still recovering from back and wrist injuries, echoed Mendenhall’s appraisal of Tautu.

“Not a lot of people know about him, but he’s progressed and taken huge steps throughout spring ball,” Warner said. “I feel like he will play a huge part in this upcoming season.”

BYU lost some depth at the linebacker position with the departures of seniors Alani Fua, Michael Alisa and Zac Stout. Despite the youth at the position, Mendenhall is excited about his young core of linebackers, which include Tautu, Warner and sophomores Troy Hinds and Sione Takitaki. Mendenhall also discussed the importance of the linebacker position in his 3-4 defensive scheme.

“That’s going to be a nice group,” Mendenhall said. “I’m not going to say standard group, but an essential group talentwise for our 3-4 defense, and all four of those guys I think are right on track.”

Senior linebacker Bronson Kaufusi, one of BYU’s most experienced returning defensive players, agreed with Mendenhall about the overall improvement of the defense.

“I feel like everyone is taking steps forward,” Kaufusi said. “I feel like everyone’s improved technique-wise and execution-wise.”

Kaufusi, who played on BYU’s basketball team two seasons ago, also gave a shout out to his younger brother Corbin Kaufusi, who is the starting center for BYU heading into the NCAA tournament.

“I’m excited,” Kaufusi said. “I got the news yesterday and I texted him. I told him congratulations and just go out and play hard.”

When asked who would win in a one-on-one matchup, Kaufusi laughed and responded, “After the season we’ll have a little go around to see who’s got it.” Trevor Woller is a public realtions student at Brigham Young University and sports enthusiast.

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