In the ever-evolving world of college football recruiting, it’s not uncommon for a program to experience late surges in commitment, especially as high school players finalize their decisions. This holds especially true for BYU football, a program that, despite its prominence in the competitive landscape of college football, faces constant challenges in securing top-tier recruits. However, in a recent turn of events, BYU made waves in the recruiting world by securing two highly coveted defensive back commitments for the 2025 class, a late-breaking move that could prove to be a game-changer for their defensive future.
The defensive backfield has been one of the cornerstones of many successful football programs, and BYU, as an independent powerhouse, has always prided itself on having a stout defense. Securing high-level talent to bolster its defensive backfield is crucial for a team that competes at a national level, particularly as the Cougars prepare for their move to the Big 12 Conference, where the level of competition will rise substantially. The late additions of these two defensive backs are expected to not only improve BYU’s defense in the short term but also serve as foundational building blocks as the program prepares for the future.
The Two Key Commitments: Who Are They?
The two new commitments BYU secured are Makai Criddle and Jaxon Guion, both of whom are seen as significant recruits for the Cougars’ defense.
Makai Criddle, a highly touted cornerback from Chandler, Arizona, is a 6-foot-1, 185-pound defensive back known for his versatility, speed, and ball skills. Criddle has received significant attention from major programs, but his decision to commit to BYU provides a significant boost to the Cougars’ secondary. Criddle’s ability to cover both wide receivers and tight ends with his length and agility will make him an immediate asset to BYU’s defensive unit. His elite athleticism and fluidity in coverage are expected to contribute to BYU’s ability to match up with Big 12 offenses, which are renowned for their speed and high-scoring offenses.
On the other hand, Jaxon Guion, a 6-foot-2, 190-pound safety from Las Vegas, Nevada, is another highly sought-after recruit who gives BYU’s defensive backfield a much-needed jolt. Guion’s physicality and hard-hitting style make him an excellent fit for BYU’s defense. His ability to read the quarterback’s eyes and react quickly to the ball gives him the potential to become a game-changer for the Cougars. Guion is also a standout in pass coverage, with great anticipation skills that allow him to break on the ball in a split second. His ability to patrol the deep zones and make timely interceptions will be a key part of BYU’s strategy moving forward.
Together, Criddle and Guion give the Cougars a dynamic pairing in the defensive backfield, offering both physicality and athleticism. Their size, strength, and skill set represent a new era for BYU’s secondary and are expected to create mismatches for opposing offenses.
Addressing BYU’s Defensive Needs
One of the most pressing concerns for BYU football as they prepare for the Big 12 transition has been the need to improve their defense, particularly in the secondary. Historically, BYU’s defense has had strong moments but has occasionally struggled against more explosive passing offenses. As the Cougars enter one of the most competitive conferences in college football, shoring up the defense has become a top priority.
In particular, BYU’s pass defense has faced challenges against high-powered offenses, and the Cougars’ ability to consistently defend against elite quarterbacks and skill players has been a source of concern. With teams like Oklahoma, Texas, and Baylor in the Big 12, which feature high-octane passing attacks, the need for top-tier defensive backs has never been greater.
Makai Criddle and Jaxon Guion provide an immediate upgrade. Criddle’s ability to lock down wide receivers in man coverage and Guion’s prowess in zone coverage and as a physical presence in the back end will offer BYU a more dynamic and versatile defense. By adding these two players to an already solid defensive group, BYU is positioning itself to better compete in the Big 12, where the pace of play is fast, and the need to disrupt passing attacks is paramount.
The Impact of BYU’s Move to the Big 12
BYU’s transition to the Big 12 Conference has been one of the most anticipated moves in college football. As an independent program, the Cougars have consistently played a competitive schedule, but the move to a Power 5 conference means increased exposure, higher stakes, and more rigorous competition.
One of the major hurdles BYU will face in the Big 12 is competing against teams that consistently recruit at the highest level. For years, teams in the Big 12 have had access to top talent across the country, particularly in Texas, a football-rich state. With Criddle and Guion, BYU can now point to two standout recruits who are ready to contribute to the Cougars’ defense and show that they can compete with the best. In addition, these commitments demonstrate that BYU is serious about competing at the highest level and can attract elite talent despite being a relatively new member of the Big 12.
The addition of these two defensive backs also underscores the importance of continuing to build a strong recruiting class to make an immediate impact. With the Big 12 featuring teams like Kansas State, Iowa State, and West Virginia, which often feature up-tempo, pass-heavy offenses, BYU will need players like Criddle and Guion to lock down wide receivers and provide a stable presence on the back end of the defense.
Recruiting Strategy and BYU’s Growing National Appeal
What makes these two commitments even more noteworthy is how BYU has managed to secure them, despite fierce competition from other major programs. Historically, BYU’s recruitment has been limited somewhat by its location in Provo, Utah, and the unique nature of its religious affiliation with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). However, over the last several years, BYU’s national appeal has grown exponentially. The Cougars have improved their visibility through regular appearances in the AP Top 25, their strong independent scheduling, and their association with some of the top coaches in college football, including head coach Kalani Sitake.
One of the key factors in BYU’s success in recruiting Criddle and Guion has been Sitake’s ability to build relationships with high school players and their families. Sitake, a former BYU player and assistant coach, understands the unique recruiting challenges BYU faces. His approach focuses on selling the program’s culture, the opportunity to compete in a top-tier football conference, and the balance that comes with being at a school affiliated with the LDS Church.
Both Criddle and Guion’s decisions to commit to BYU indicate that the program has successfully overcome some of the historical recruiting barriers it once faced. While both players were pursued by several other top programs, their decision to commit to BYU signals that the program is becoming a destination for top-tier talent, not just in Utah but across the country. The ability to secure two highly-ranked defensive backs so late in the recruiting cycle speaks to the national appeal BYU is beginning to develop.
The Long-Term Impact: Building a Strong Defense
Looking beyond the 2025 season, Criddle and Guion represent the beginning of a new defensive era for BYU. With these two recruits on board, the Cougars are well-positioned to field a more aggressive and competitive defense in the Big 12.
As the program continues to add top-tier talent across all positions, including linebackers and defensive linemen, the foundation of a championship-caliber defense is taking shape. Defensive coordinator Elisa Tuiaki has a strong track record of developing talented players, and with recruits like Criddle and Guion, BYU’s defensive unit will have the depth and skill needed to make significant strides in the upcoming years.
Both Criddle and Guion are expected to contribute immediately upon their arrival at BYU. Criddle’s cover skills could lead him to earn significant playing time as a freshman, potentially as a starting cornerback or in nickel and dime packages. Guion, with his physical style of play, could become a leader in the secondary and may see time in multiple defensive sets, particularly in passing situations.
Conclusion: A Bright Future for BYU Football
BYU football’s ability to secure two highly ranked defensive back commitments for the 2025 class is a huge win for the program. Criddle and Guion are two players who possess the athleticism, skill, and mental toughness to make an immediate impact on the Cougars’ defense and are critical pieces as BYU transitions to the Big 12.
As the Cougars continue to build on their recruiting success, these commitments signal that BYU is not just a program with a rich history but one that is poised to compete for championships in the modern landscape of college football. With top talent like Criddle and Guion joining the ranks, BYU football’s future looks incredibly bright as they prepare for one of the most competitive stretches in the program’s history. The Cougars are not just back in the race—they are leading it.
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