Puka Nacua’s Best College Seasons by the Numbers
Introduction
Puka Nacua made a name for himself in college football with his impressive performances at both Washington and BYU. While his time at Washington was limited, his two seasons at BYU saw him develop into a top-tier receiver. Let’s take a closer look at his best college seasons, breaking down the numbers that defined his success. puka nacua college stats
Breakout Season: 2021 at BYU
After transferring to BYU, Nacua wasted no time in making an impact. The 2021 season marked his arrival as an elite playmaker.
2021 Season Stats
- Games Played: 12
- Receptions: 43
- Receiving Yards: 805
- Touchdowns: 6
- Average Yards per Catch: 18.7
- 100-Yard Games: 4
This was the year Nacua established himself as BYU’s primary deep threat. His ability to stretch the field, combined with his strong hands and route-running skills, made him one of the most dangerous receivers in the country. Averaging nearly 19 yards per catch, he proved he could turn any play into a big gain.
Consistent Playmaker: 2022 at BYU
Although injuries limited him to nine games in 2022, Nacua remained BYU’s most reliable offensive weapon.
2022 Season Stats
- Games Played: 9
- Receptions: 48
- Receiving Yards: 625
- Touchdowns: 5
- Average Yards per Catch: 13.0
- Game-Winning Touchdowns: 2
While his yardage per catch dipped compared to 2021, he increased his reception total despite playing fewer games. His ability to step up in clutch moments was evident, particularly in his standout performance against Boise State, where he recorded 14 catches for 157 yards and two touchdowns, including the game-winner.
Comparing His Best Seasons
| Season | Games Played | Receptions | Receiving Yards | Average Yards per Catch | Touchdowns |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 (BYU) | 12 | 43 | 805 | 18.7 | 6 |
| 2022 (BYU) | 9 | 48 | 625 | 13.0 | 5 |
What Made These Seasons Special?
- Explosive Playmaking: In 2021, Nacua was one of the best deep threats in college football, averaging nearly 19 yards per catch.
- Consistency: In 2022, he proved he could be a high-volume receiver, leading the team despite injuries.
- Clutch Performances: He had multiple game-winning touchdowns, showing his ability to step up in key moments.
Conclusion
Puka Nacua’s two seasons at BYU were his best in college, showcasing both his big-play ability and reliability as a go-to receiver. Whether stretching the field or making tough catches in crucial moments, he demonstrated the skills that would eventually lead to his success at the professional level.