BYU's 'Bash Brothers' add another layer to offense


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PROVO — When Tanner Balderree first arrived at BYU, he was slotted for the defensive line as a returned missionary freshman.

The same nearly happened to recent Alta High graduate Steven Richards, who played almost exclusively at tight end for the 9-2 Hawks in 2011.

Both will get a chance to shine on offense this year, thanks to a new package the coaches are simply referring to as "the bash brothers."

Much like their personas from the classic "The Mighty Ducks" movie, Balderree and Richards have taken to the new assignment of block-first, play action-pass catching tight ends with an edge.

"These are kids who we needed help at that position," offensive coordinator Robert Anae said of the duo. "They add an element of toughness and grit coming over from defense. It really helps your tailback run game. Having this addition is really healthy for the offense."

Balderree and Richards likely won't be 1,000-yard receivers for BYU this year. Their role with the offense will be more subtle — except to opposing defensive linemen, whom the duo have been told to block and flatten at will.

(Photo: Jeffrey D. Allred/Deseret News)
(Photo: Jeffrey D. Allred/Deseret News)

"They brought a dynamic that we didn't have before," quarterback Taysom Hill said. "Their main role is going to be blocking for us.

"Those guys are tough and they want to get in and get their hands dirty. That'll help us get a lot better."

With bandanas in tow, the "Bash Brothers" laid out a few big hits during spring practices and the blue-and-white spring game. If need be, they can catch a ball, too.

"What they are doing with us is, they're seeing how well we can block and then allowing us to go out for passes," Richards told the Deseret News. "It's nice for us because everyone thinks we're going to be blocking, but then we run a route, and we're open. For this offense, it's kind of like a secret weapon."

The duo even sported the same No. 89 jersey at the spring game, and they intentionally wear the same style of cleats and gloves to make the pair of 6-foot-2 blockers nearly indistinguishable to opposing defenders.

When you add the bandanas, they take on a new persona — and sometimes hit as one.

"They are fierce," said running back Jamaal Williams. "They came from defense, and they get an opportunity now where they want the ball — but they love blocking, and they get the chance to smash people. That's why they call themselves 'bash brothers.'"

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