University of Utah football is returning to Rice-Eccles Stadium for the season opener against the Idaho Vandals. Fans should prepare for traffic delays as the team prepares to play the game at 7 p.m.
The Utes are ranked No. 21 in the preseason coaches poll, following an 11-2 record last season. They follow Brigham Young University, which is ranked No. 15 in the preseason lineup.
Morgan Scalley has taken over as the head coach for the Utes after Kyle Whittingham left for the University of Michigan. The University of Utah is currently suing Freddie Whittingham, a former assistant coach, for allegedly breaching his contract by following Kyle Whittingham to Michigan before the contract expired. The school is seeking more than $300,000 for the contract and approximately $1 million in additional damages.
This leadership transition follows an offseason where six former Utah football players spoke out against the program regarding the handling of injuries and pressure to play. Senior quarterback Devon Dampier, who played through several injuries last season, is reportedly healthy.
Fans attending the game should expect road closures on Guardsman Way starting at 4 p.m. Those using TRAX can use their ticket as fare. The stadium maintains a clear bag policy, and spectators are advised to leave backpacks at home.
The Utes are scheduled to face the BYU Cougars in the Holy War rivalry game on Saturday, Nov. 7. BYU has won the last three meetings between the teams.
