Keanu Tanuvasa knew this game was coming when he made the move 40 minutes south from Salt Lake City to Provo this offseason.
The former University of Utah star, who now anchors BYU’s undefeated defense, will see his old team this week. Is he feeling nervous?
“I think I’m just excited and passionate to take the field with so many individuals that have impacted my career at Utah and BYU,” Tanuvasa said. “A lot of people say this is just another game. Obviously, I can feel that it isn’t. But I’ve never had this game just circled. I believe every game deserves the fullness of my energy.”
Tanuvasa took plenty of vitriol from Utah’s fan base on his way out. He remembers the comments fans made. Are those fuel or water under the bridge?
“I’m using [the comments] both,” Tanuvasa said. “I know that might sound contradictory. There are moments where people are going to say things; that is the way of the world. ... But it is also a blessing to have a little extra fuel to the fire.”
(Trent Nelson | The Salt Lake Tribune) Kyle Whittingham and Utah Utes defensive tackle Keanu Tanuvasa (57) as Utah hosts BYU, NCAA football in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Nov. 9, 2024.
On the field, he doesn’t know if his experience in Utah’s program will help much. The Utes have a new offensive coordinator, Jason Beck, and a new quarterback.
“It was a blessing to go against them for the last three years. But it was a different offensive scheme, now having a new coordinator. I play a little different technique here,” he said.
He also noted BYU head coach Kalani Sitake approaches this week differently than Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham.
“I love the position I’m in, being on both sides. Both teams attack it, recognizing there is extra passion and extra emotions going into this game. BYU, not just in the difference in culture, but in the perspective of the way they go about the game, handles this week a little different,” he said. “Both [approaches] are great and I’m buying into Kalani’s culture.”
Tanuvasa said he has kept in touch with some of his former teammates, but that communication will be put on pause until Saturday.
“I’ve kept in touch, gone to certain weddings. Hang out at times over the summer,“ he finished. ”This week, there probably won’t be much communication."