BYU Defense Primed for Takeaways Under New Coordinator

Cornerback Tre Alexander predicts more interceptions in 2026 with new schemes and personnel

Apr. 5, 2026 at 10:37pm

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BYU's defense is undergoing changes this spring with the arrival of new defensive coordinator Kelly Poppinga, who is implementing new schemes and looks to create more turnovers. Cornerback Tre Alexander is excited about the new energy and talent on the defense, including transfers like linebacker Cade Uluave and cornerback Jaden Williams. Alexander believes the defense can surpass its 24 turnovers from 2024 and become the top interception unit in the country.

Why it matters

BYU's defense has been a strength of the team in recent years, leading the FBS in interceptions in 2024. The new coordinator and influx of talent could help the Cougars take another step forward on that side of the ball and become an even more disruptive force for opposing offenses.

The details

Under new defensive coordinator Kelly Poppinga, BYU's defense is implementing some new schemes and looks while maintaining the core of what made them successful the past two seasons. Players like cornerback Tre Alexander are adjusting to Poppinga's personality and playcalling, but are excited about the potential of the unit. Alexander highlighted new transfers like linebacker Cade Uluave, edge rusher Jake Clifton, and cornerback Jaden Williams as impact additions who will help the defense. The cornerback group in particular is expected to be a strength, with Alexander, Evan Johnson, and the vocal Williams leading the way.

  • In 2024, BYU tied for the FBS lead with 22 interceptions.
  • In 2024, BYU's defense had 17 interceptions and 7 fumbles recovered for 24 total turnovers.

The players

Kelly Poppinga

BYU's new defensive coordinator, replacing Jay Hill who left for Michigan.

Tre Alexander

BYU cornerback who is excited about the new energy and talent on the defense.

Cade Uluave

Transfer linebacker who Alexander says is 'special' and will make a big impact.

Jake Clifton

Transfer edge rusher who Alexander believes will be a key addition.

Jaden Williams

Transfer cornerback from Mississippi State who is known for his vocal leadership.

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What they’re saying

“'Spring has been great. It's obviously a different voice at the helm of the defense with coach Pop out there, but it's just taking time to adjust to how he sees things, how he calls plays, but all in all, our standard is the same, the players are the same.'”

— Tre Alexander, BYU Cornerback

“'Every day he comes with great energy. It makes me want to show up to practice every day and give my all for them.'”

— Tre Alexander, BYU Cornerback

“'I think we are a more experienced team this year than we were last year. A year ago we had a lot of sophomores starting, myself included.'”

— Tre Alexander, BYU Cornerback

“'We can be way better in that department, especially myself. Being a young'n last year I knew plays were coming but I was kind of scared to just guess it. I was second-guessing myself a lot and left a lot of picks on the board.'”

— Tre Alexander, BYU Cornerback

“'I know that if I step up my numbers, it's going to be contagious to the rest of the guys and I know myself, Faletau (Satuala) Raider (Damuni), Tommy (Prassas), Shmev (Johnson) and Jaden can definitely top what we did the last two years. There is no doubt in my mind that we can be the number one interception group in the country.'”

— Tre Alexander, BYU Cornerback

What’s next

BYU will continue spring practice over the next few weeks as the team works to fully implement the new defensive schemes under coordinator Kelly Poppinga. The Cougars' spring game is scheduled for April 22, giving fans a first look at the revamped defense.

The takeaway

BYU's defense has been a strength of the team in recent years, and the arrival of new coordinator Kelly Poppinga has the players excited about the potential to take another step forward in 2026. With an experienced secondary led by Tre Alexander, and an influx of new talent at linebacker and edge rusher, the Cougars believe they can become the top turnover-creating defense in the country.