BYU linebacker Siale Esera doubtful for Colorado State game after injury
Starting linebacker Siale Esera suffered an injury in BYU's win over Arizona and is expected to miss Saturday's matchup against Colorado State, coach Kalani Sitake said.
BYU coach Kalani Sitake announced that junior linebacker Siale Esera, who was injured during Arizona's opening touchdown drive, is "more than likely" unavailable for the upcoming game against Colorado State on Saturday. Esera left the 28-17 victory early and has not been listed on the current depth chart. Sitake said the injury is not season-ending but will keep Esera out for the weekend, adding that the team is being transparent about player health.
Senior Isaiah Glasker will start at the rover linebacker position, with Kansas State transfer Jake Clifton as his backup. Sophomore Nusi Taumoepeau moves into the starting Sam linebacker role, a spot previously held by Glasker.
Sitake praised his defense's effort against Arizona, noting that the first half tested the team's conditioning and that the squad responded well in the second half to secure the win. He described Colorado State as a "dangerous team" after reviewing film of their recent games and emphasized the need for the Cougars to be at their best in all three phases of play.
Both BYU and Colorado State enter the contest with 2-0 records. The game marks the first meeting between the former WAC and Mountain West programs since 2010, part of a home-and-home series scheduled for 2024 and 2029. BYU aims for a fourth straight 3-0 start, while Colorado State seeks its first 3-0 start since 2011.
Sitake also addressed scheduling, explaining that BYU's move to the Big 12 has increased regional non-conference matchups, including several games against Group of Six opponents. He noted that Colorado State's coaching staff includes former BYU personnel, but does not expect that to provide a significant advantage.