BREAKING: Four-Star OL Olaus Alinen Shocks Alabama With Decommitment, Flips Commitment to BYU Over Georgia, MS State, and Others
Olaus Alinen had always been a headline-maker, a towering figure with a frame built for dominance on the football field. Hailing from Finland, his journey to the American gridiron was already the stuff of legends. But no one could have anticipated the shockwave he’d send through the college football world on a crisp November evening.
For months, Alinen had been a solid Alabama commit, the Crimson Tide faithful celebrating his potential to anchor their offensive line for years to come. But whispers began circulating in recent weeks. A quiet visit here, a cryptic post there—something was shifting.
The moment came during a live stream on his Instagram, a simple setup with his family and a table adorned with hats from the nation’s top programs: Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi State, and a surprise addition—BYU. The Finnish flag in the background hinted at the pride he carried for his roots, but the world was tuned in for one reason: to see where Olaus Alinen would play college football.
With a deep breath, Olaus reached for the Alabama hat, paused, and shook his head. He picked up the Georgia hat next, only to set it down with a knowing smile. Mississippi State was left untouched. Then, with dramatic flair, he grabbed the blue BYU hat, placing it firmly on his head.
Gasps filled the virtual audience, followed by a wave of comments and reactions. BYU? Over Alabama? Over Georgia?
“I’ve been blessed with incredible opportunities,” Alinen began, his voice steady. “But as I prayed and thought deeply about where I could truly grow—not just as a player, but as a man—BYU felt like home. Their values align with mine, and I’m excited to be a part of something special.”
Behind the scenes, the move wasn’t as spontaneous as it seemed. BYU’s coaching staff had been relentless, emphasizing their unique culture and the program’s commitment to both athletic and personal development. They tapped into Alinen’s desire to not only excel in football but to make a lasting impact on and off the field.
Meanwhile, Alabama fans erupted online, lamenting the loss of a cornerstone recruit. Georgia and Mississippi State supporters couldn’t help but wonder what might have been. But in Provo, Utah, a small, tight-knit community was already buzzing. The Cougars had just landed their highest-rated offensive line recruit in years, and they knew it would change the trajectory of their program.
As Olaus wrapped up his announcement, he smiled at the camera, his future suddenly as bright as the floodlights at Lavell Edwards Stadium. College football had been put on notice.