2024 SEASON-IN-REVIEW

Record: 5-7

The injuries continued for Cam Rising and Utah struggled because of it. A 4-0 start quickly turned around after a big win against Oklahoma State. The Utes would go onto lose seven consecutive games before ending the season with a win against UCF. Utah did not qualify for bowl season and will look to turn it around here in 2025.

OFFENSE: New-Look Utes to Take Over

The Utah offense was less than impressive last season. This led to many changes to both the staff and personnel on the field.

Devon Dampier was the major addition under center. He spent time with New Mexico last season with new offensive coordinator Jason Beck. Dampier threw for nearly 2,800 yards and rushed for 1,166 yards and 19 touchdowns. The dual-threat ability of Dampier will help take the Utes to the next level.

Along with Dampier, the Utes made sure to rebuild the skill positions. Wayshawn Parker comes in from Washington State after 735 yards and four touchdowns. Utah also brought in Dampier’s top target last year with the Lobos in Ryan Davis. At 6-foot-4, Otto Tia is an over-the-middle receiver for Dampier to work with.

The offensive line will have plenty to block for as well. Despite Dampier being the leading rusher, the Utes will have a strong duo while he can also use his arm to make plays.

It begins with Spencer Fano, who is among the top tackles in the nation. Caleb Lomu is another NFL prospect that will dominate at tackle. The interior is strong once again with Tanoa Togiai manning one of the guard positions.

DEFENSE: How Good Can it be?

Utah’s defense was strong last year but did not have much of a chance with the lack of offensive firepower.

As a whole, the defense will look to be a power but it will take some time. The cornerbacks are expected to bring a bit of normalcy. Elijah Davis is among the top in the conference while the safeties are elite as well. Smith Snowden can contribute in many ways.

Heading into the middle, it is Lander Barton who led the team with 72 tackles last season. Levani Damuni led the Utes in tackles in 2023 before missing last season with an injury. Having him back in the lineup is a major boost.

Along the defensive line, Keanu Tanuvasa is a big loss as he entered the portal. This means new faces will have to step up, including Logan Fano and Aliki Vimahi.

2025 UTAH FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

• Saturday, Aug. 30: at UCLA
• Saturday, Sept. 6: vs. Cal Poly
• Saturday, Sept. 13: at Wyoming
• Saturday, Sept. 20: vs. Texas Tech
• Saturday, Sept. 27: at West Virginia
• Saturday, Oct. 11: vs. Arizona State
• Saturday, Oct. 18: at BYU
• Saturday, Oct. 25: vs. Colorado
• Saturday, Nov. 1: vs. Cincinnati
• Saturday, Nov. 15: at Baylor
• Saturday, Nov. 22: vs. Kansas State
• Friday, Nov. 28: at Kansas