College football rivalries are intense, but what happens when players switch sides? It’s a move that can spark both admiration and outrage, and former University of Utah players Keanu Tanuvasa and Carsen Ryan know this all too well. Now at BYU, they’ve found a new home—and a different culture—amidst the heated rivalry between these two powerhouse programs.
But here’s where it gets controversial... Transfers between these schools, separated by just 50 miles, are far from uncommon. As BYU coach Kalani Sitake pointed out, players often remember the recruitment process when things don’t work out at their initial school. Sitake, a 50-year-old veteran in his 10th season at BYU after a decade at Utah, has mastered the art of keeping bridges intact—a strategy that’s paid off in the transfer portal.
And this is the part most people miss... While the rivalry between BYU and Utah is fierce, the culture and approach to the game differ significantly. Tanuvasa, now a defensive tackle for BYU, noted that Sitake handles the rivalry with a unique perspective compared to Utah’s Kyle Whittingham. This cultural shift has been a key factor in how players like Tanuvasa and Ryan adapt to their new roles.
Tanuvasa, in particular, has faced a storm of criticism from Utah fans since his transfer. ‘I knew that (the move) was going to cause earthquakes,’ he admitted. ‘I’ve never been hated that much in my life.’ Yet, he’s using this backlash as fuel, channeling it into his performance on the field. His slow start at BYU, marked by personal fouls and targeting penalties, has been a learning curve, but he’s determined to bounce back.
On the other hand, tight end Carsen Ryan has made a seamless transition, becoming a vital part of BYU’s offense. With 14 catches for 211 yards and two touchdowns, Ryan has proven to be the complete package—a skilled pass-catcher and blocker who rarely leaves the field. His decision to transfer, he said, was driven by the opportunity to be part of a program with great coaches and a winning culture.
Here’s the bold question: Is it fair for fans to turn on players who transfer? Sitake takes the high road, emphasizing that these are personal decisions and that players should be where they feel they belong. But the debate rages on, especially as former Cougars like Logan Fano and John Henry Daley now shine for Utah. The transfer portal has reshaped college football, but at what cost to loyalty and tradition?
As BYU and Utah prepare to face off this Saturday at LaVell Edwards Stadium, the stakes are higher than ever. Both teams are ranked, and the rivalry is as intense as ever. Will Tanuvasa and Ryan prove their worth against their former teammates? And how will fans react to this high-stakes matchup? One thing’s for sure: this game is about more than just football—it’s about culture, loyalty, and the unspoken rules of the rivalry.
What’s your take? Do transfers betray their former teams, or are they simply pursuing the best opportunity? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
