Utah Tech freshman linebacker Luke Hansen was named the Big Sky Conference co-Defensive Player of the Week on Monday, following a performance in the Trailblazers' first Big Sky Conference victory on Saturday, Oct. 24, at Cal Poly.
Hansen's Defensive Impact
Hansen recorded six total tackles during the 43-26 road win at Spanos Stadium, including his first two collegiate tackles-for-loss and his first career sack. The freshman also recorded his first collegiate interception midway through the third quarter, returning it 19 yards to the Cal Poly 4, a play that directly led to a Utah Tech touchdown on the subsequent possession.
Breaking the Losing Streak
The Trailblazers' victory marked the program's first-ever Big Sky Conference win and snapped a 10-game losing streak that dated back to the end of the 2025 season. It also represented the team's first road victory since the 2023 season.
Turnovers Drive Victory
The Utah Tech defense forced a season-high six turnovers, including four interceptions, which directly contributed to 26 points for the Trailblazers. While the defense was dominant, the Cal Poly offense struggled significantly, committing six turnovers in the contest.
Cal Poly Struggles
Cal Poly quarterback Anthony Grigsby Jr. completed 26 of 38 passes for 285 yards and one touchdown, but also threw four interceptions. Cal Poly head coach Tim Skipper noted that the six turnovers were a significant setback, stating that the team must own the mistakes and improve. The Mustangs also played without key playmakers Fidel Pitts and Jalen Green, who both sustained injuries during a previous game against Northern Colorado on Oct. 17.
Trailblazer Offensive Performance
Utah Tech's offense was led by quarterback Deacon Hill, who finished with 213 passing yards and two rushing touchdowns. Hill's rushing touchdowns came on runs of 2 yards and 5 yards. Freshman running back Junior Curtis contributed 59 yards on nine carries, and Darnell O'Quinn recorded five catches for 68 yards.
Looking Ahead
Utah Tech returns home for a matchup against Idaho State this upcoming Saturday, Oct. 31, at 1 p.m. (MT) in Greater Zion Stadium. Cal Poly begins a three-game stretch against ranked FCS opponents starting next Saturday, Oct. 31, against No. 3 Montana State.
Milestones for Anderson
The victory for Utah Tech was Head Coach Lance Anderson's first road victory at the university. The win also broke a 21-game road losing skid for the program.
