Fifth-year senior Bodie Schoonover is ready to anchor what could be one of the most formidable defensive lines in college football this season. Originally signed as a prized tight end and linebacker recruit out of American Fork High in 2020, Schoonover’s journey to becoming a leader on BYU’s defensive front has been anything but linear. After serving a church mission in Texas and South Africa, he returned to the Cougars with a transformed physique—and an even stronger commitment to the program he grew up cheering for.
Now checking in at 270 pounds, Schoonover has found his home on the defensive line. Last season, he played in all 14 games and started 10, a significant leap from the year prior when he appeared in every game but didn’t earn a single start. That increased playing time proved to be a turning point. "I never thought I'd be where I'm at right now," Schoonover said during spring workouts. "But my body has grown, and things have happened. I’m super comfortable with everything, and the new coaches believe in me a lot."
His confidence soared during the latter half of the 2025 season, highlighted by two sacks against Iowa State, a critical pass breakup versus Utah, and six tackles in games against Arizona and Texas Tech. Schoonover credits the Arizona matchup as the moment his career truly took off. "That was the biggest thing I was missing—the confidence to go out there and do what I knew I could do," he explained.
This year, Schoonover is penciled in as a co-starter at the bigger defensive end position alongside junior Viliami Po’uha, but he’s also expected to rotate inside. His versatility is a key asset for a BYU defensive line that boasts as much experience as any in the country. Much of his development, he says, comes from senior defensive consultant Gary Andersen and a tight-knit group of fellow linemen, including Keanu Tanuvasa, Anisi Purcell, and recent graduates John Taumoepeau and Logan Lutui. "Not only is he a great coach, he's also just a great guy," Schoonover said of Andersen.
After sitting out spring camp following offseason shoulder surgery, Schoonover is hungry and ready to lead. For fans of BYU football—and anyone who appreciates a story of patience, growth, and loyalty—this season could be his breakout moment. And for those who love the game, seeing a player evolve from a versatile recruit into a key defensive anchor is exactly what makes college football so compelling.