BYU and Utah Shine with Standout Transfers in Early Season
The 2026 college football season has reached its first quarter, prompting ESPN to evaluate the influence of transfers on the teams' performances. College football insider Max Olson compiled a sleeper all-transfer team, spotlighting standout players who have made significant contributions despite not being included in ESPN's top 100 transfer rankings. This list features players from both No. 9 BYU and No. 15 Utah, alongside other emerging talents in the Big 12.
BYU's transfer class was relatively modest, adding nine players through the transfer portal this offseason. However, the impact of these transfers has been substantial, particularly on the offensive line. Tackle Paki Finau, a former Washington player, has emerged as a key figure for the Cougars. Starting every game at left tackle, Finau has been instrumental in BYU's offensive success, helping the team achieve the top national ranking in run-blocking grade and an impressive 18th in pass blocking, according to Pro Football Focus.
Finau's versatility has been a game-changer for BYU. After two seasons with the Huskies and four starts at left guard in 2025, he has seamlessly transitioned to left tackle, a critical position for any offense. Olson noted that Finau has allowed just one pressure and no sacks, ranking first among Big 12 starting tackles in PFF grading. His performance has contributed to BYU's remarkable offensive output, with the Cougars ranking seventh nationally in yards per play at 7.9 during their undefeated 3-0 start.
On the other hand, Utah's transfer haul was more extensive, with 17 new players joining the program under head coach Morgan Scalley. Among these transfers, defensive tackle Jireh Moe has made a significant impact. Standing at 6 feet and weighing 280 pounds, Moe has proven to be a disruptive force on the defensive line. In Utah's recent 43-10 victory over Arkansas, he recorded a career-high eight tackles, including two tackles for loss and a sack, showcasing his ability to excel against formidable opponents.
Moe's transition from San Jose State to Utah has been marked by his consistent performance. Starting all three games this season, he has quickly become a vital part of the Utes' defensive strategy. Olson highlighted Moe's standout performance against Arkansas, where he demonstrated his ability to penetrate the offensive line and disrupt plays, further solidifying his role in the team's defensive scheme.
No Points for Excuses
The inclusion of Finau and Moe in Olson's sleeper all-transfer team underscores the growing importance of transfer players in college football. As teams increasingly rely on the transfer portal to fill gaps in their rosters, the ability of these players to adapt and perform at a high level can significantly influence a team's success. Both BYU and Utah have effectively utilized the transfer portal to enhance their squads, demonstrating that strategic recruitment can lead to immediate results on the field.
As the season progresses, the performances of these transfer players will be closely monitored, not only for their individual contributions but also for how they shape the overall dynamics of their respective teams. The early success of BYU and Utah serves as a testament to the potential impact of transfers in college football, setting the stage for an exciting and competitive season ahead.
