Every college football season, there is always a team that emerges from the shadows to shake up the balance of the sport. It could be a team that has been overlooked or one that has been waiting for the right moment to make their mark. This season, that team could very well be the Utah Utes.
Under the leadership of head coach Kyle Whittingham, the Utes have built a reputation for their strong defense and unwavering resilience. They have consistently been a force to be reckoned with in the Pac-12 conference, but have often been overlooked in the national spotlight. However, that may all change this season.
Recently, ESPN released their projections for the upcoming college football season and it came with an unexpected surprise for Utah. They have been predicted to not only win the Pac-12 South division, but also to make it to the College Football Playoff. This is a huge statement for a team that has often been overshadowed by other powerhouse programs.
This projection comes after a strong warning from Devon Dampier, a former Utah player and current ESPN analyst. He stated that the Utes are a team to watch out for this season and that they have the potential to make a lot of noise in the college football landscape. Dampier’s words hold a lot of weight, as he knows the program inside and out and has seen firsthand the determination and talent of the players.
But what exactly makes Utah a team to watch out for this season? Let’s take a closer look at some of the key factors.
First and foremost, the Utes have a strong and experienced coaching staff led by Kyle Whittingham. He has been with the program since 1994 and has been the head coach since 2005. Under his guidance, the Utes have consistently been one of the top defensive teams in the country. They have a tough and physical style of play that has earned them the nickname “Sack Lake City”. With Whittingham at the helm, the Utes have always been a tough team to beat.
In addition to their strong defense, the Utes also have a talented and experienced roster. Quarterback Tyler Huntley and running back Zack Moss are both returning for their senior seasons and are expected to lead the offense. Huntley had a strong 2018 season, throwing for 1,788 yards and 12 touchdowns before an injury cut his season short. With a healthy Huntley and Moss, the Utes’ offense could be a formidable force this season.
But it’s not just the returning players that make Utah a team to watch out for. They also have a strong recruiting class, with several highly rated recruits joining the team. This includes four-star wide receiver Bryan Thompson, who could provide a much-needed boost to the Utes’ passing game.
Overall, it’s clear that Utah has all the pieces in place to make a run for the College Football Playoff this season. They have a strong coaching staff, experienced players, and talented recruits. But perhaps the most important factor is their determination and hunger to prove themselves on the national stage. They have been overlooked and underrated for far too long and now they have the opportunity to show the world what they are capable of.
So, while ESPN’s projection may have come as a surprise to some, it is a well-deserved recognition for a program that has been steadily building its reputation and fighting for respect. The Utes are ready to make their mark and shake up the balance of college football. And with Kyle Whittingham at the helm, anything is possible. Get ready, because the Utah Utes are coming for the top spot.
