NEW YORK — The BYU offensive line was today named a semifinalist for the Joe Moore Award presented by Johnsonville, which annually honors the nation's most outstanding offensive line.
Recognized for its outstanding play as an overall unit in 2026, the BYU offensive line is one of just 10 schools named as semifinalists. The announcement was made by The Foundation for Teamwork, which has presented the unique award since 2015.
Coached by TJ Woods, BYU leads the nation in fewest tackles for loss allowed (17) and ranks No. 4 for the fewest sacks allowed (5). The Cougars also rank fifth for the most positive rushing plays per attempt, losing yards on only 4.3 percent of rushes. The BYU front has helped BYU convert 83.3 percent of third-down and fourth-down short yardage rush attempts, which ranks No. 6 nationally.
The BYU offensive line is led by preseason All-American center Bruce Mitchell (senior) who is also a candidate for the Rimington Trophy for a second consecutive season. A two-year captain, Mitchell has started every game this season and is backed up by Trevor Pay (sophomore).
Tackles Paki Finau (sophomore), who has started every game at left tackle, Andrew Gentry (senior), Bott Mulitalo (freshman) and Siosiua Latu-Finau (freshman) all have started for the Cougars in 2026. On the interior, Sonny Makasini (senior), Kyle Sfarcioc (senior) and Trevin Ostler (senior) have all started at guard, with Makasini and Sfarcioc starting every game they have been available. Other contributors to the unit's success seeing time on the field this year include Zak Yamauchi (sophomore), Joe Brown (sophomore) and Jr Sia (junior).
The Joe Moore Award is named after Joe Moore, widely regarded as one of the best offensive line coaches in college football history, most notably for his work at Notre Dame and Pittsburgh. Coach Moore sent 52 players on to the NFL during his 19 seasons in college football.
Finalists for the 2026 Joe Moore Award will be announced on Dec 2.
Joe Moore Award Midseason Honor Roll
Boise State
BYU*
Duke
Georgia
Houston*
Iowa
Kentucky
Notre Dame
Tennessee
Utah*
*Big 12