BYU Football: Previewing the Cougars' Running Backs

Despite the loss of Bryan Kariya and JJ Di Luigi, BYU should have plenty of depth at the running back position. The Cougars return key players Michael Alisa, Josh Quezada and David Foote, and welcome several newcomers to the ranks.

This is the first segment of a five-article series going into more depth in every position on BYU's roster. The other segments will be published in the next few weeks.

Josh Quezada

In his sophomore season as a Cougar, Josh Quezada played in all 13 of BYU's games. With only 298 rushing yards on the season, there is plenty of room for Quezada to improve.

Josh Quezada will most likely sit near the top of the depth chart this season, so the rushing load will rely partly on him. If Quezada can take advantage of the opportunities he is given, he will have a successful season.

Michael Alisa

Michael Alisa was practically unknown at the beginning of last season, but made a splash with 84 yards and a touchdown against Oregon State. Alisa finished the year as the team's second-leading rusher, compiling 85 carries, 455 yards and three touchdowns.

Michael Alisa has been credited as one of the fastest Cougar running backs since Luke Staley, and the duo of Quezada and Alisa could be extremely successful.

David Foote

David Foote did not see exceptional time playing offense, but he appeared in all 13 games on special teams. Foote finished the season with 13 carries for 146 yards.

As a junior, David Foote has plenty of time to grow as a player. When Josh Quezada leaves, Foote will most likely be the No. 2 option in the backfield.

Paul Lasike

A rugby player, Paul Lasike is currently a member of of the BYU football and rugby teams. Standing at 6'0" and 225 pounds, Lasike not only has size but speed as well.

I have never actually seen him play football, but rugby and football are similar, right?

Well, I guess not, but Lasike practiced with the football team during the season, and still has plenty of time to make the transition. If he can prove he's a good football player, the Cougars will be loaded in the backfield this season.

Iona Pritchard

Iona Pritchard is a sophomore, but hasn't played in a game since 2008. He served an LDS mission in 2009, but suffered a season-ending injury in the spring of 2011. He red shirted last year, and looks to make a direct impact in the backfield this season.

Standing at 6'0" and weighing 240 pounds, Pritchard is no small guy. If he is as quick as he was four years ago, he could make a big difference on BYU's season.