BYU WR Darius Lassiter To Miss First Half of Alamo Bowl
PROVO, Utah — BYU football will be without one of its top receivers for the first half of the Alamo Bowl in San Antonio.
Darius Lassiter is set to miss the opening half of the Big 12 showdown against Colorado following his ejection late in BYU’s victory over Houston on November 30.
The incident occurred after Jake Retzlaff scored a seven-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter of BYU’s 30-18 win. Lassiter retaliated when Houston defensive back A.J. Haulcy shoved one of his BYU teammates, resulting in Lassiter’s ejection.
Lassiter’s Absence for the First Half
While the ejection did not affect the outcome of the Houston game, it carries significant consequences for the Alamo Bowl. Lassiter’s absence in the first half against Colorado could impact BYU’s performance.
“He’ll play, but he’ll have to sit out the first half for the unsportsmanlike [penalty],” said BYU head coach Kalani Sitake. “These are the consequences of his actions. It’s unfortunate, but he’ll have the second half to contribute.”
Lassiter has been a key player for BYU in 2024. The Eastern Michigan transfer recorded 43 catches for 679 yards and four touchdowns, including a game-winning score against Oklahoma State. His efforts helped BYU achieve a 10-2 regular-season record.
“He’s practicing and working hard,” Sitake added. “He has next-level potential, and we’re helping him develop. But we’re limited without him in the first half.”
BYU’s WR Options Without Lassiter
In Lassiter’s absence, Jojo Phillips could step into the starting role against a Colorado secondary led by Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter. Phillips, a redshirt freshman, leads BYU in yards per catch with an impressive 21.1-yard average.
Chase Roberts, another top receiver, confirmed he plans to play against Colorado and is considering entering the 2025 NFL Draft. Additionally, Keelan Marion, known for his All-American kick-returning skills, has become a versatile offensive weapon for BYU.
However, true freshman Cody Hagen, who was Lassiter’s primary backup, is unlikely to play in the Alamo Bowl due to an injury, according to Passing Game Coordinator Fesi Sitake.