For a post-Zach Wilson BYU, Kalani Sitake emphasizes momentum in the 2nd chapter of BYU’s college football resurrection

Editor’s note: This is part of a continuing series previewing the Power 5 and top Group of 5 teams for the 2021 college football season. Roderick said Pau’u is perhaps the most underrated player on BYU’s offense returning from last year. “I like that group a lot.” Tight ends: The BYU staff was so high on freshman Isaac Rex going into 2020 that they weren’t surprised when he had a breakout season in the wake of star tight end Matt Bushman suffering a season-ending injury in fall camp. “Yes, we lost some guys, but I have a ton of confidence in that group.” Cougars' returning production CATEGORY PERCENT RETURNING TOP RETURNER Passing yards 0.7 Romney, 261 Rushing yards 82 Allgeier, 1,130 Receiving yards 68 Romney, 767 OL starts 44 Empey, 34 Tackles 68 Pili, 72 Tackles for loss 62 Udo, 5.5 Sacks 57 Batty, 4 Interceptions 62 Five players, 1 Defensive line: Despite losing three starters up front, BYU defensive coordinator Ilaisa Tuiaki firmly believes the interior depth won’t have a significant dropoff. This year, against the Power 5’s, they need to win.” “The coaching staff believes the rebuild after Mendenhall’s departure is headed in the right direction,” said a person familiar with the program.