BYU offensive line coach Darrell Funk is working to manage the high expectations surrounding his unit following a dominant 2022 season that saw the group ranked as the best in the country by certain metrics. As the Cougars maintain their upward trajectory in the Big 12, Funk is emphasizing fundamental development and roster depth to sustain the program's high-powered offensive performance.
Measuring Elite Performance
The debate over the nation's premier offensive line was fueled by a viral social media inquiry from BYUtv Sports Nation in March 2022, which asked followers who possessed the best offensive line in the country and pointed to BYU as the answer. This sentiment was backed by statistical performance during the 2022 season, during which the BYU offensive line ranked No. 1 in pass protection grades overall according to PFF, and ranked No. 10 in NCAA statistics for the fewest sacks allowed, averaging just one per game.
These achievements were bolstered by the development of key personnel, including former All-American left tackle Blake Freeland. Freeland, who played as a four-year starter for the Cougars, was named a Third Team AP All-American in 2022 and was recognized as the Independent Offensive Lineman of the Year by College Football Network. His career at BYU included starting 41 games out of 44 appearances, contributing to an offense that ranked No. 8 nationally for fewest sacks allowed in 2020.
Focus on Fundamental Growth
Despite the accolades, head coach Kalani Sitake and the coaching staff have remained focused on the continuous improvement of the unit. During the spring practice sessions in 2022, Sitake noted that while the offense appeared slightly ahead of the defense due to veteran presence, the primary goal was to maintain identity and focus on the fundamentals and technique.
Quarterback Jaren Hall echoed this sentiment of continuous work, stating that the team is never satisfied or content with their current standing. Hall noted that while the offensive line provides a level of comfort through returning experience, the focus remains on the individual improvement of every player to ensure the weakest link is as strong as possible. This philosophy of constant refinement is a cornerstone of the program's approach to the offseason and summer conditioning.
A Program on the Rise
The success of the offensive line has been a key component of the program's overall resurgence under Sitake. Since taking over as head coach in 2016, Sitake has guided the Cougars to significant milestones, including a 12-2 season and a No. 11 final AP ranking in 2025. The 2025 squad was particularly notable for its efficiency, ranking No. 10 nationally in overall efficiency according to the ESPN College Football Power Index.
In 2025, the BYU offense averaged 31.4 points per game, a figure that contributed to a high-scoring identity. This offensive success was supported by a balanced attack that featured a 3,000-yard passer and a 1,000-yard rusher, a rare feat achieved by only a handful of FBS teams in the country. Sitake's ability to maintain this high level of play has earned him significant recognition, including being named the 2025 Big 12 Chuck Neinas Coach of the Year.
Expertise in Player Development
Darrell Funk brings a vast amount of experience to the offensive line room, having coached for 35 years and overseeing offensive fronts at several major programs. His coaching history includes stints at Michigan, Purdue, San Diego State, Colorado State, and Ball State. During his tenure at Michigan from 2011-2014, his lines produced three Big Ten Rimington-Pace Offensive Lineman of the Year winners, including David Molk, Taylor Lewan, and Erik Magnuson.
Funk has a proven track record of developing NFL-caliber talent, having mentored players such as Blake Freeland, who moved on to the Indianapolis Colts. His ability to develop linemen is evidenced by the high number of professional prospects he has coached across various programs, including Michigan, UTSA, and Purdue. This expertise is vital as BYU continues to compete at the highest levels of college football and seeks to recruit and develop the next generation of elite linemen.
Maintaining Competitive Depth
The depth of the BYU roster remains a point of pride for the coaching staff. During the 2022 spring season, Sitake remarked that the team was as deep as they had ever been in program history. This depth allows the coaching staff to run various lineups and maintain high-intensity competition during practices.
In addition to the offensive line, the program's strength is bolstered by a highly ranked defense and a specialized coaching staff. The 2025 defense, for example, ranked No. 19 in scoring defense, allowing only 19.1 points per game. This balanced excellence across all units has allowed the Cougars to achieve multiple bowl victories over ranked teams, including a 2025 Pop-Tarts Bowl victory over No. 22 Georgia Tech.
Looking Ahead
As the Cougars move forward, the focus remains on sustaining the momentum built over the last several seasons. With a coaching staff led by Sitake and Funk, and a roster that has consistently produced high-performing units, the program is positioned to remain a competitive force in the Big 12. The emphasis on fundamentals, whether in the weight room or on the practice field, remains the primary driver of the program's continued success.
Historical Context
The BYU offensive line's historical context includes significant milestones dating back to the LaVell Edwards era. The program's recent success, characterized by high-scoring offenses and efficient defenses, marks a return to the program's elite status. Sitake's tenure has seen the Cougars achieve back-to-back bowl victories over top-25 teams, a feat that underscores the program's growing national footprint.
