BYU’s backfield depth took a hit this week, and the Cougars now know they’ll be waiting a while to get Sione Moa back.
Moa said Wednesday on social media that he tore both his MCL and PCL in the first quarter of BYU’s season opener against Utah Tech on Saturday. The injury leaves the running back sidelined indefinitely after he was one of the team’s key depth options.
“I would be lying if I said these past few days haven’t been my hardest days mentally,” Moa wrote in an Instagram post. “... But I sit here now, recovering from surgery, with an attitude of gratitude once again.
“... I was reminded that football is only but a small part of my joy.
I was reminded that my joy comes from my wife. My family.
My brothers. My faith and my savior Jesus Christ, who is the source of all of my joy.”
Moa’s injury comes after he had already put together a solid stretch in limited action at BYU. In 11 career games, he has carried the ball 53 times for 258 yards, averaging 4.9 yards per rush, and scored four touchdowns. Against Utah Tech, he had 22 yards on six carries before leaving with the injury.
This is the second straight season Moa has been knocked off course by a major medical issue. In 2025, he dealt with compartment syndrome, missed 10 games, and nearly lost his leg.
“Although this setback isn’t ideal, I know that I’m in perfect hands,” Moa wrote. “Thank you to everyone who’s reached out.
I feel your love and support daily. Thanks for being patient with me Cougar Nation.”
In Other News...
BYUs Frontcourt Addition Could Matter More Than Fans Realize
BYU has quietly added another layer to its frontcourt with the arrival of Serbian center Petar Ostojic, a 19-year-old seven-footer who already brings professional experience from Serbian leagues. For a roster still taking shape, the move gives the Cougars a bigger body in the paint and a player who can develop behind Jaxon Kohler, a spot that could matter even more if the season starts with questions at center.
Kohlers eligibility for the upcoming season remains unresolved, with a hearing set for Sept. 29, and that uncertainty is what gives Ostojics addition extra weight. If BYU ends up needing immediate size and depth, the Cougars may find that this understated pickup ends up carrying more significance than it first appeared to have. [Read more 🡒]
BYUs Secondary Is Still Waiting On One Crucial Return
BYUs defense came out of its season opener with a lopsided win over Utah Tech, but the secondary was left sorting through the fallout after safety Raider Damuni went down with a severe leg injury. The Cougars have already had to reshuffle some things behind the scenes, and defensive coordinator Kelly Poppinga has been clear that Damunis absence has forced others into bigger roles sooner than planned.
There is at least a timeline now, and it gives BYU some reason for patience. Poppinga indicated Damuni is aiming to get back after the bye week, with the possibility of returning for either TCU or Notre Dame, while Tommy Prassas has moved into a starting safety spot in the meantime. For a defense trying to stay steady with quarterback Noah Fifita on deck, the next stretch will say plenty about how well the Cougars can hold the line until one of their most important pieces is ready again. [Read more 🡒]
Treyson Bourguet Just Shared Why BYU Means More Than Football
Treyson Bourguet arrived at BYU last year after transferring from Western Michigan, and his role as a backup quarterback has given him a different kind of spotlight than the one most fans usually track. On BYUtvs Sports Nation, he talked about how his time in Provo has shaped more than his game, describing the experience as one that has influenced his life and faith in ways he did not expect.
Bourguet, who said he is spiritual even though he is not a member of the sponsoring faith, spoke openly about football and BYU bringing him closer to Christ. He also pointed to the people around him, thanking teammates and coaches for creating an environment built around a shared desire to be disciples of Christ through football. For BYU, it is the kind of reminder that the programs pull often reaches well beyond the depth chart. [Read more 🡒]