BYU Football: Projected 2-deep depth chart for 2017
By Zach Bigalke
Offensive Line
Starting tackles: Thomas Shoaf (LT), Kieffer Longson (RT)
Backups: John Vaka, Austin Hoyt
It looks as though BYU’s offensive line is going to be younger on the edges in 2017. Left tackle Thomas Shoaf is just a redshirt sophomore, but he started nine games last season. That was at right tackle, and Shoaf is the likeliest candidate to take over Andrew Eide’s vacated spot.
Stepping into Shoaf’s spot on the right side could be transfer John Vaka, who is eligible to play after decommitting from Oregon. Redshirt freshman Kieffer Longson has also looked great in the spring, and will challenge Vaka for the starting position on the right. In the mix is also Austin Hoyt, who could see time at any of the tackle or guard spots this year.
Starting center: Tejan Koroma
Backup: Keyan Norman/James Empey
Tejan Koroma enters his final year with BYU after starting the 38 straight games for the Cougars. The senior has been a regular presence on the line since arriving in Provo, and only injury will keep him from taking the field. If Koroma is forced to the bench, BYU has an experienced center in left guard Keyan Norman (see more below). James Empey, the freshman son of offensive line coach Mike Empey, will likely redshirt this season before his mission trip.
Starting guards: Keyan Norman (LG), Tuni Kanuch (RG)
Backups: Austin Chambers, Chandon Herring
Keyan Norman was a mainstay at left guard last season. The former FCS player at Southern Utah excelled in his opportunity to play at a higher level. With the Thunderbirds, Norman spent most of his time at center. He provides solid backup behind Koroma as well as filling his regular position on the line.
Bracketing the line at the other interior position is right guard Tuni Kanuch, a fifth-year senior with 16 career starts and 21 more in relief. The starters will be backed up this season by redshirt freshmen Chandon Herring and Austin Chambers.