BOISE, Idaho — Seni Tuiaki has been injured since January, when interim coach Nate Dreyling arrived in Cache Valley under Utah State’s defensive coordinator.
A lot has happened to the team since then, but Tuiaki remained on the sidelines. In fact, he has already retired for health reasons.
But the Aggies were so thin on defense, especially at defensive tackle, that Dreiling asked if he was interested in returning.
After thinking for a moment, Tuiaki returned. Dreyling said he practiced Wednesday for the first time in two months, but did not play in Saturday’s game, Utah State’s 62-30 loss to Boise State.
“(He) gave us a little bit of a spark — at least internally,” Dreyling said. “I love that kid. He’s one of the best people on this team on and off the field.”
Dreyling said Tuiaki, who has been helping coach since last month, came in sixth place in a vote to determine the team’s five captains. He added that the Aggies will need him moving forward this season.
“He’s very selfless, giving of himself and doing what it takes to help the team succeed,” Dreyling said.
Dreiling said Defensvie tackles Taz Williams and Miguel Jackson will be out for the season with shoulder injuries. Defensive end Blaine Spiers will be out for six weeks with a broken toe, he added.
