Kelly Poppinga debuts as BYU defensive coordinator against Utah Tech

BYU defensive coordinator Kelly Poppinga leads his unit for the first time on Saturday when the Cougars host Utah Tech at LaVell Edwards Stadium. Poppinga plans to rotate his coaching location between the sidelines and the press box throughout the season based on game flow and player needs. The defense will feature multiple fronts and coverages, drawing influence from past mentors including Bronco Mendenhall and Jay Hill. Poppinga enters his first season in the role with a roster featuring returning starters Isaiah Glasker, Evan Johnson, and Keanu Tanuvasa, alongside newcomer Cade Uluave. The coordinator emphasized a focus on consistent execution and a six-second havoc mindset. This game serves as the initial assessment of the defensive scheme and the leadership council Poppinga has established among his personnel.

• 6:30 PMYahoo Sports — Kelly Poppinga’s BYU defensive coordinating debut has arrived. Here’s what to expect