No. 8 BYU Emphasizes Tackling After 18 Missed Tackles Against UCF
No. 8 BYU is focusing on improving its tackling after a season-high 18 missed tackles in its recent double-overtime loss to UCF. Head coach Kalani Sitake and players are emphasizing better defensive technique and execution in practice as they prepare…
Salt Lake City, UT, October 26, 2026 —
No. 8 BYU is emphasizing tackling in practice after recording a season-high 18 missed tackles in its recent double-overtime loss to UCF. Head coach Kalani Sitake and players are focusing on defensive technique and execution as the team prepares to host Arizona State.
The 18 missed tackles were a season high for BYU, according to the information provided. The account does not include the final score, the date of the game or details about how the missed tackles occurred. It also does not identify individual players or specify which practice drills the team is using.
Sitake and the players have made improved technique and execution a focus during practice. The available information does not include direct quotes from the coach or players, nor does it describe any specific changes to the team’s defensive approach.
BYU’s next stated focus is its home game against Arizona State. The date of that game and further details about the matchup were not provided. No additional information was included about the team’s record, the outcome of the Arizona State game or whether the practice emphasis has produced measurable results.
The reported missed-tackle total and practice focus offer a limited account of BYU’s response to the UCF loss. Further details about the individual plays, the team’s evaluation of its defensive performance and its preparation for Arizona State were not available.
Story summarized from the original created by Jackson Payne on www.deseret.com, see more information here.
Media gallery
