No. 17 Utah secured a 33-0 shutout victory against Utah State at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City. The win moves the Utes to a 3-0 record as they prepare to enter conference play.
Utah head coach Morgan Scalley noted that while the team was pleased with the win, the offense appeared disjointed during the second half. Scalley mentioned the need to clean up penalties, including false starts and delays of game. He also took responsibility for a failed fake punt that was not called.
Defensively, the Utes held Utah State to zero points and prevented them from scoring from inside the red zone, going 0-for-2 on red zone opportunities. Individual defensive highlights included Trey Reynolds recording double-digit tackles and Rabbit Evans securing his first career interception. Cyrus Polu also recorded a sack during the game.
Offensively, Braden Pegan recorded significant production against his former team. Quarterback Devon Dampier stated that the offense felt confident due to strong play from the receivers and effective blocking. Dampier noted that the game is beginning to slow down mentally for him, allowing for better decision-making.
Kicker Dillon Curtis contributed a 54-yard field goal, a 36-yard field goal, and successful PATs. Receiver Daniel Bray recorded 101 all-purpose yards.
Utah State head coach Bronco Mendenhall expressed concern regarding Harrison Taggart, noting the player was carried off the field on a spine board following a significant injury. Mendenhall described Taggart as the heartbeat of the program and an emotional leader.
Utah State safety Chapman Lewis, returning to the field after a long-term knee injury, expressed gratitude for being able to play again.
Following the win, the Utes will travel to face Iowa State for their first conference game.
