There are three things certain in life… death, taxes and Masen Wake hurdling over defenders.

The BYU tight end announced his retirement Thursday after four years playing for the Cougars. The former Lone Peak Star stayed closed to home, playing in front of friends and family at LaVell Edwards Stadium.

Known for hurdling over almost every defender, Wake quickly turned into “Air Wake” for his leaping ability. The senior concludes his BYU career with 32 catches for 304 yards and two touchdowns, while adding 11 carries for 29 yards and two touchdowns.

Wake thanked Cougar Nation in a farewell post on social media.

“To the greatest fans in the world, Thank You!
“My time here at BYU has been life changing. I’ve created friendships and memories that will last a lifetime. I am humbled and grateful for everything BYU has given and taught me over my career. I want to thank Coach Kalani for being an incredible role model in my life that has taught me through example how to be a better man, future husband, and future father. I want to thank Coach Clark for believing in my potential since the beginning and for always being there for me on and off the field. I also want to thank all my teammates for accepting me and for turning into my lifelong brothers. I want to express my gratitude to the amazing fans. There is nothing like playing in LES. To my family, I can’t thank you enough. I wouldn’t be where I’m at if it wasn’t for your love and support. What a ride it’s been! With that being said, after many thoughts and prayers, I have decided to step away from football. I am excited for what the future holds for me and for BYU Football.
Thank you, BYU!
Go Cougs.”

Big 12 Conference: Fans React As BYU And Utah Are Back Together Again

A Tribute To His Mom

In a game against Houston in 2020, the 14th ranked Cougars were down 26-21 at the start of the fourth quarter. With the ball on the 8-yard line and digging into their bag of tricks, Zach Wilson — who turned into the No. 2 pick the next season — drifted to his right before tossing an underhanded pass to an open Wake, who hurdled a defender at the goal line for the go-ahead score in a 43-26 win for BYU.

The creative pass was straight out of the Mahomes playbook, with the 2018 NFL MVP even commenting on Twitter: “Well Done!”

In the back of the end zone, Wake celebrated by lifting his jersey to reveal the words: “Rest In Heaven Mom.”

For two weeks, Wake was waiting for just the right moment to unveil it. With the go-ahead score, Wake’s touchdown was the perfect time to do so and the moment spread like wildfire on social media.

From hurdles to touching tributes, “Air Wake” was a fan favorite that will be sorely missed.

Here’s how fans, players and media members reacted to the news:

 

 

 

BYU opens the 2023 season on Sept. 2 against Sam Houston State (8:15 p.m. MDT, FS1).

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Big 12 Conference: Fans React As BYU And Utah Are Back Together Again

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