12/9/08
The Utes are going to defend their Mountain West Conference title/BCS Buster status just fine. Yes, the holes are glaring on offense due the senior departures, which includes the current MWC Offensive Player of the Year Brian Johnson at quarterback. Every single skill position on offense will be virtually depleted. The ole adage that defense wins championships will get put to a severe test; nine starters return from a group that finished in the top three of every major conference defensive statistical category. The defensive line is a rock led by two All-MWC players. 23-year old junior Paul Kruger gives the Utes a serious threat for pressuring opposing quarterbacks. Ten of the top 11 Ute tacklers are back in the fold for next season. CB Sean Smith (five INTs) heads a senior-based secondary that provides the defense with the necessary balance. Whoever replaces defensive coordinator Gary Andersen has the potential to become an instant coaching sensation with this bunch. Once again, the obvious key for this staff will be reloading on offense. Getting the first crack at quarterback will be super-quick Corbin Louks. His running dimension should continue to add interesting spice to this offensive mix. Despite the fact that big running back Darrell Mack has moved on, there are plenty of options. Eddie Wide garnered most of the starts in 2008, though, Matt Asiata is the team's leading rusher. Whomever the QB, he will need some time this spring to get acquainted with the new faces at receiver. The offensive line has a few veterans like First Team All-MWC tackle Zane Beadles to help break in the newbies on the right side. Head coach Kyle Whittingham has proven to be a winner. and with so much talent coming back on his defensive side, Utah is set to be the highest rated mid-major team to enter 2009...just as they ended the 2008 regular season. Repeating with another undefeated season is not out of the question by any stretch.