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Utah Star DT Keanu Tanuvasa Transfers to BYU

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Elijah Grayson Murray | Last updated Dec 30, 2024 12:39 PM ET

Utah's best defensive lineman Keanu Tanuvasa has officially transferred to BYU in a stunning move that is sure to fuel the rivalry flames even more.

Tanuvasa was an outspoken leader for the Utes at the start of the transfer window, criticizing Cam Calhoun's move to Alabama and reassuring fans that he was a "Utah Man." However, in an unexpected turn of events, the Mission Viejo, California native, announced his entrance into the portal, which was met with pressing backlash from the fans.

With the winter transfer portal now officially closed, fans were wondering what would happen with "Nu" as he didn't sign with any program, but also didn't announce his return to Salt Lake City.

Alex Markham of Utah Rivals broke the news that the Cougars attempted to lure three big-time Utah players to the portal: Smith Snowden, Lander Barton, and Keanu Tanuvasa.

The bitter rivals were unsuccessful in getting the star linebacker and young defensive back despite his father being a former BYU star, but they were successful in getting Tanuvasa.

Tanuvasa tallied 16 total tackles, four passes defended, and a sack in 2024 and racked up 49 total tackles, five passes defended, four sacks, and one interception during his career with the Utes.

This move serves as a massive blow to the Utah defense, especially with the portal closed leaving no way to fill the position until the spring. However, the Utes' defensive staff is one of the best in the nation at developing talent, and they will surely find a way to mitigate the loss before the season begins.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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