The 2014 season football thread

[kccougar]

Well, who really cares anyway? On the scale of offenses Travis' transgression seems laughably minor to me. Underage drinking was rampant in Utah during my high school and college years and I doubt that has changed much. Also, I have been out of the state since 1982, but I don't recall law enforcement offers patrolling concerts or similar events, on the lookout for underage drinkers. How recent is that approach?

I agree that Travis' issue is minor - I believe I said as much in my post.

[Jarid in Cedar]

We can't mock cheapskate BYU Fan for trying to sidestep concessions at LES by having Mrs. BYU Fan smuggle in food for their six kids if we have Ute fans who are too miserly to buy the starting QB of their favorite team a beer of his own, instead bogarting out "sips".

That would be a violation (I kid, but only a little)

[sancho]

In the 17 cities in 7 different states in which I've lived

Neither your protestations nor your boardname can fool me. Admit it, you're reading this while in line at a Provo Cafe Rio.

[LA Ute]

I think we need the football season to start.

[jrj84105]

According to an account I saw, at the concert Ute fans swarmed Travis and offered him sips of a beer. He took some. No belligerence or disorderliness. The alcohol cops who (as Diehard has told us) patrol these events saw that Travis didn't have a "21 and over" wristband and cited him. (Again, to me this type of law enforcement attention to underage drinking is pretty surprising.) My guess: Whit will call Travis on the carpet but no disciplinary action.
Judging by the typical Tim McGraw concert goer demographic and my wife's reaction to the summer conditioning photo, I have a pretty good idea of what kind of Ute fans were offering TW sips of their drinks.

[UTEopia]

I think the Fresno game will be very competitive. Here is what they are writing about Fresno:

http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaaf/2014/07/21/fresno-state-bulldogs-2014-football-countdown-preview-roster-depth-chart-schedule/12906675/

[sancho]

I think the Fresno game will be very competitive. Here is what they are writing about Fresno:

http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaaf/2014/07/21/fresno-state-bulldogs-2014-football-countdown-preview-roster-depth-chart-schedule/12906675/

I hate the Fresno game. Fresno has USC, Utah, and Nebraska OOC. They are going to be dying for a BCS win, and we are the target. That kind of motivation matters. It's a game we have to win, and I think we will. But it's no gimmie.

[Applejack]

I hate the Fresno game. Fresno has USC, Utah, and Nebraska OOC. They are going to be dying for a BCS win, and we are the target. That kind of motivation matters. It's a game we have to win, and I think we will. But it's no gimmie.

agreed. I hate that we traded my favorite win of the year I'm byu for a tough out with Fresno. Meh.

[sancho]

Piper says Wallace Gonzalez:

http://sports.yahoo.com/footballrecruiting/football/recruiting/player-Wallace-Gonzalez%20III-105546

just joined the Utes after spending 3 years in minor league baseball. I don't want to overreact, but I'm pinning all my hopes of getting back to a bowl game on this guy.

[LA Ute]

Piper says Wallace Gonzalez:

http://sports.yahoo.com/footballrecruiting/football/recruiting/player-Wallace-Gonzalez%20III-105546

just joined the Utes after spending 3 years in minor league baseball. I don't want to overreact, but I'm pinning all my hopes of getting back to a bowl game on this guy.

Well, it seems like every year Whit comes up with someone like Andy Phillips -- an unlikely star player who shows up out of nowhere. I wonder who will be this year's Andy?

[DrumNFeather]

Piper says Wallace Gonzalez:

http://sports.yahoo.com/footballrecruiting/football/recruiting/player-Wallace-Gonzalez%20III-105546

just joined the Utes after spending 3 years in minor league baseball. I don't want to overreact, but I'm pinning all my hopes of getting back to a bowl game on this guy.
Yes! Aiona Key 2.0!

[Applejack]

Piper says Wallace Gonzalez:

http://sports.yahoo.com/footballrecruiting/football/recruiting/player-Wallace-Gonzalez%20III-105546

just joined the Utes after spending 3 years in minor league baseball. I don't want to overreact, but I'm pinning all my hopes of getting back to a bowl game on this guy.

WGIII!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! He's got the best nickname on the team.

[UTEopia]

I think our depth personnel this year across the board with the exception of DL. However the biggest key to getting more wins will be if these stats are different:

Total Offensive Plays: Utah 864 Opposition 887
Interceptions: Utah 21 Opposition 3
Fumbles/Lost: Utah 13/4 Opposition 25/13

Turnover margin: -9.

Since joining the PAC 12, here is our record with different turnover margins:

+3 or greater 6-0
+2 3-1 (loss USC)
+1 6-2 (loss CU and UA)
even 3-4 (loss USC, UCLA, WSU, UA)
-1 0-4 (loss USU, Wash, Ore, ASU)
-2
-3 0-8

I'm not going to make predictions and say that we will win a certain number of games if we can do X with turnovers, but the history is pretty telling. We have a great chance to win when we win the turnover battle.

[Utah]

That's fine. I'll take a notch below. We lost to OSU and ASu by 4 points. We lost to UCLA because of 6 TO's. Our defense destroyed USC and ASU, and USC loses Lee and ASU loses their whole defense. Literally, their whole defense.

We lost to WSU because Schulz threw 2 pick sixes.

We could have easily had 9 wins last year.

So, give me a better QB, better RB's, better WR's, better LB'ers, better secondary, better coaches, AND and easier schedule, even if only a notch easier, and we will be bowling again.

Everyone is WAY too down on this program. WAY too down. We are not a bad football team at all. We had a walk-on QB. That was our problem. Sure, if the OL was better, maybe Wilson doesn't get hurt, but that doesn't change the fact that we had a WALK-ON as our starter.

That's it. That's the difference between 7-8 wins and 5. Adam Schulz.

Like I said before, if we had a PAC-12 level backup QB, we beat ASU and WSU. That right there puts us at 7 wins. 8 for the season, because we would have destroyed CSU.

Like I stated before:

Improved(QB+RB+WR+LB+DB+COACHES)+Plateaued(DL+OL)-Schedule difficulty= > or = bowl game.

Just being a zoob.

[Utah]

Wilson has another year of experience. Our backups are four 3-4 star guys, not walk-ons. It is significantly better. Wilson is much better than last fall, which is pretty impressive, because he was pretty damn good last year.

He is quicker, a little faster, and has a semi-touch pass instead of the rifle-pass-deflected-for-an-INT. Not huge changes, but if you have a guy that can beat the #5 team in the country, do you really need him to leaps and bounds better? Nope. You need him to make better decisions and stay healthy. The first problem is usually fixed by experience, which Travis has.

La la land for me.

[Utah]

I don't get this. We went 5-7 against the hardest schedule we have ever had. Our schedule won't be as tough this year. Fresno isn't as good as Utah State. Michigan and BYU are a wash. ASU loses their whole defense. UCLA loses Barr. OSU loses Cook. We get WSU, Arizona, USC and Oregon at home. Heck, just the law of averages says that a couple of teams we face won't end up as good.

Our secondary is much better. Our LB's are better. Our RB's are better. Our WR's are better. Our TE's are pretty equal. Our DL is, at worst, the same. QB is better.

OL is the only position of real worry, and at worst, it is the same as last year.

So, easier schedule + better team + better QB + better coaches = less wins?

Doesn't compute for me. Sorry.

Ha.

[U-Ute]

La la land for me.


Ha.

Let your freak flag fly brother! Go
Utes!

[DrumNFeather]

This may or may not be news, but according to the notes in the Trib, Logan Stott quit the team, and is moving on from football.

[Applejack]

This may or may not be news, but according to the notes in the Trib, Logan Stott quit the team, and is moving on from football.

I was just discussing him this weekend. I always thought there was something off there with the way he left Arizona. Too bad, we could have used him.

[Applejack]

Uaea Masina (backup linebacker) is out for the season with an arm injury: http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865612679/Utah-linebacker-Masina-out-for-the-season-with-an-arm-injury.html

He hasn't been a huge contributor since Paul came back, but we basically have zero backups at this point. Here's to hoping Whittingham and/or Hale get back soon.

[LA Ute]

Is it just me, or are Piper and Goon just killing their competition in Ute coverage?

ESPN's metrics rate Utah's special teams as nation's best
Published on Oct 11, 2014 07:14PM

After reading our story on Utah's special teams excellence (http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/utes/58501265-89/phillips-special-teams-punt.html.csp), ESPN Stats & Analysis Division Manager Mike Wilson has been kind enough to provide a little more context.

Utah's special teams, by ESPN's measurements, are the best in the nation this year, and have been among the best for a while.

ESPN's statisticians estimate that Andy Phillips, Tom Hackett, Kaelin Clay and Co. have contributed 7.8 added points per game - compared to an average team's group - this season.

That number takes into account strength of schedule. The top five heading into this week's games were as follows:

http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/blogsutahsports/58511748-59/espn-utah-special-teams.html.csp

1. Utah » (4-1), 7.78
2. Temple » (3-1), 7.05
3. Texas A&M » (5-1), 5.14
4. BYU » (4-1), 5.12
5. Maryland » (4-2), 4.94

Since 2004, when ESPN began keeping track, the Utah has averaged 2.17 expected points added per game by specialists, Wilson said. That ranks seventh, behind (in order) Florida State (2.91), Florida, LSU, Ohio State, Kansas State and Miami.

More ESPN efficiency statistics are available here. (https://espn.go.com/college-football/statistics/teamratings/_/sort/stEfficiency/tab/efficiency)

This article explains the expected points added methodology. (https://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/6833215/explaining-statistics-total-quarterback-rating)

- Matthew Piper

mpiper@sltrib.com

Twitter: @matthew_piper (https://twitter.com/matthew_piper)

*****

Link:

http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/blogsutahsports/58511748-59/espn-utah-special-teams.html.csp

[U-Ute]

Is it just me, or are Piper and Goon just killing their competition in Ute coverage?

The quality has definitely improved.

[justaute]

Absolutely.

OHTH, while scanning through UFN, I noticed ute2004 is back and being his same old ill-behaved self -- now that Utah has beaten UCLA. Hope he doesn't comeback to here and make this place cantankerous.



The quality has definitely improved.

[DrumNFeather]

Not sure if this has been posted, but the game time is set for the USC game: 10:00 PM EST. I wonder if they'd do a blackout for this one?

[Applejack]

Not sure if this has been posted, but the game time is set for the USC game: 10:00 PM EST. I wonder if they'd do a blackout for this one?

I hate the late night games - we need more of the 4PM PT kickoffs.

[DrumNFeather]

I hate the late night games - we need more of the 4PM PT kickoffs.

Me too...that's three straight games with the 10 PM Slot. Of course, if we win this week maybe it's our "lucky" time slot.

[SigmaUte]

Not sure if this has been posted, but the game time is set for the USC game: 10:00 PM EST. I wonder if they'd do a blackout for this one?

It has already been confirmed, Utah will be having a black out for their home game against USC.

[Hot Lunch]

It has already been confirmed, Utah will be having a black out for their home game against USC.

This is going to be a fun environment. Especially if we beat Oregon St. this Thursday night. The black out USC game is one that you want to have recruits at. It is going to be fun.

[LA Ute]

I'm coming up for the SC game. I guess at 8:00 p.m. on a late October night I'm going to have to wear more than my short-sleeved black Ute polo.

[Applejack]

I'm coming up for the SC game. I guess at 8:00 p.m. on a late October night I'm going to have to wear more than my short-sleeved black Ute polo.

You have black Ute gear!!!!??! :shocker:

[LA Ute]

You have black Ute gear!!!!??! :shocker:

Absolutely. I may complain but I'm a team player. I'll wear my black Utah sweatshirt to the game. Adding insult to injury, my wife says it looks good on me.

I don't deserve this.

1279

Go Aztecs! Er, Matadors! I mean, Utes!

[Applejack]

I've been doing a little research and it looks like our use of black pre-dates St. Urban.

1280

[Diehard Ute]

I really hate the 8pm kick. I was denied the night off. May miss my first game in 30+ years.

[LA Ute]

I've been doing a little research and it looks like our use of black pre-dates St. Urban.

1280

That is the ugliest media guide cover I've ever seen.

[hostile]

That is the ugliest media guide cover I've ever seen.

You don't like black. We get it. :)

[concerned]

That is the ugliest media guide cover I've ever seen.

The ridiculous thing about that era is how oversized the shoulderpads are. I really noticed it last week when they showed all the Jim McMahon highlights.

[Applejack]

I'm not sure I've ever seen a media guide that so prominently featured a center. I'm guessing Don Eck could really snap the ball.

[concerned]

I'm not sure I've ever seen a media guide that so prominently featured a center. I'm guessing Don Eck could really snap the ball.

Highland, Olympus and Skyline all appear to be at the bottom of the GSL.

[LA Ute]

You don't like black. We get it. :)

Your lawn pass has now been revoked.

[UteBeliever aka Port]

I've been doing a little research and it looks like our use of black pre-dates St. Urban.

1280

Did the same artist that used to do The Children's Friend make that cover?

Yikes.

[justaute]

I think you meant to say "Go Raiders!".

http://seattletimes.com/ABPub/2008/11/01/2008340653.jpg


Absolutely. I may complain but I'm a team player. I'll wear my black Utah sweatshirt to the game. Adding insult to injury, my wife says it looks good on me.

I don't deserve this.

1279

Go Aztecs! Er, Matadors! I mean, Utes!

[Dwight Schr-Ute]

Highland, Olympus and Skyline all appear to be at the bottom of the GSL.

Probably right where they belong.

Rumor has it, this picture prompted the construction of all the giant pumps at the GSL.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[LA Ute]

I think you meant to say "Go Raiders!".

http://seattletimes.com/ABPub/2008/11/01/2008340653.jpg

Now, THAT's what I'm talking about.

[Diehard Ute]

Now, THAT's what I'm talking about.

Is it? Their name is the "RED Raiders" ;)

[LA Ute]

Is it? Their name is the "RED Raiders" ;)

Right. And Texas Tech is just the school we want to emulate and think of as a peer, right? Why am I discussing this with you anyway? You don't even have permission to be on my lawn. I have to yell across the street even to talk with you....

[LA Ute]

This is interesting.

College Football Fan Map (http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2014/10/03/upshot/ncaa-football-map.html?_r=1#8,45.808,-116.110)

If you hover over the zip code you'll see percentages of the top 3 programs in fans' minds. These conclusions are based in Facebook "likes." I understand those data are pretty accurate, which is interesting in itself.

[SoCalPat]

We own more of Utah than any team in the state, and our deficits in Happy Valley are much less than BYU's deficits in metro SLC.

Oregon is easily the most popular out-of-state team in Utah. Outside of Cache Valley, they outdistance USU significantly.

[Applejack]

We own more of Utah than any team in the state, and our deficits in Happy Valley are much less than BYU's deficits in metro SLC.

Oregon is easily the most popular out-of-state team in Utah. Outside of Cache Valley, they outdistance USU significantly.

LOL @ UNLV! Not placing in the top three in most zip codes in Vegas.

[LA Ute]

Joel Klatt, the Fox Sport analyst and the color man for the Oregon State game, has some interesting things to say in this interview:

http://espn.kall700sports.com/joel-klatt-fox-sports-cfb-and-nfl-draft-analyst-10-17-14/

If I recall correctly he says that if Utah can just get average production out of its QB position they will be a formidable contender nationally.

[justaute]

Good find. The comments were reasonable.


Joel Klatt, the Fox Sport analyst and the color man for the Oregon State game, has some interesting things to say in this interview:

http://espn.kall700sports.com/joel-klatt-fox-sports-cfb-and-nfl-draft-analyst-10-17-14/

If I recall correctly he says that if Utah can just get average production out of its QB position they will be a formidable contender nationally.

[sancho]

Remaining games in order of difficulty from easiest to hardest:

@cu
Arizona
@Stanford
Usc
@asu
Oregon

[NorthwestUteFan]

That is Murderer's Row. Even @Copper will be very tough.

And I love it that way. :)

[OrangeUte]

Remaining games in order of difficulty from easiest to hardest:

@cu
Arizona
@Stanford
Usc
@asu
Oregon

I agree with this ranking given the way these teams are currently playing.

[LA Ute]

Congratulations to Devontae Booker and Andy Phillips! Booker is the Athlon Sports National Player of the Week after rushing 32 times for 229 yards and three TDs in Utah's win over Oregon State. His 229 yards were the most of any running back in the country for the last week. And Phillips is the Pac-12's Special Teams Player of the Week and a Lou Groza Star of the Week after hitting all three of his field goal attempts at Oregon State. Phillips leads the Pac-12 and is sixth in the nation in scoring with 10.8 points/game, and he's 9-of-11 in 40+ yard field goals this season.

1291

https://www.facebook.com/uathletics/photos/a.104897645959.110989.18995940959/10152808425180960/?type=1&theater

[U-Ute]

http://www.houseofsparky.com/2014/10/20/7020533/asu-utah-kickoff-time



Todd Graham could arrive in a DeLorean and Marty McFly might make a guest appearance when Arizona State's game with Utah starts at 8 p.m PT on Fox Sports 1 on Nov. 1 at Sun Devil Stadium.

The game will kickoff at 11 p.m. on the East Coast. Daylight savings time ends at 2 a.m. on Nov. 2, the day after the game starts.

Assuming the game goes over three hours, which it probably will, the time will change on the East Coast sometime around the end of the third or beginning of the fourth quarter.

If the Sun Devils score right before the time change on the East Coast, say 1:30 a.m., which would be 10:30 in Arizona, they could theoretically score at the same time of day again on the East Coast or elsewhere in the country after the clocks fall back.

Arizona, however, doesn't observe daylight savings time. As a result, either Arizona State or Utah could score twice at the same time in another area of the country and only once in Arizona.

It's almost like time travel...maybe...but not really.

[Applejack]

http://www.houseofsparky.com/2014/10/20/7020533/asu-utah-kickoff-time

:anger:

[chrisrenrut]

I feel bad for AJ, Brian, and other east coasters. But selfishly, I like the time. We are flying to Hawaii that day, so the late start will allow us to complete our travel and be able to sleep through, er, watch the game.

[DrumNFeather]

18 in both polls.

[Solon]

18 in both polls.

I've read a couple of places (and heard it on the telecast last night) that this was Utah's biggest Pac-12 win.
What about Stanford last year?
Or UCLA this year?

Not to diminish a great game, but those were bigger wins (IMO).
Or am I wrong?

Maybe it's like Parcells used to say: you're only as good as your last game.

[LA Ute]

I've read a couple of places (and heard it on the telecast last night) that this was Utah's biggest Pac-12 win.
What about Stanford last year?
Or UCLA this year?

Not to diminish a great game, but those were bigger wins (IMO).
Or am I wrong?

Maybe it's like Parcells used to say: you're only as good as your last game.

Maybe in terms of the win's significance to the program. Although at the time, everyone thought the Stanford win positioned us to compete for a division title. There are differences. This time we already have a couple of glossy wins and a pretty impressive body of work behind us.

[DrumNFeather]

18 in both polls.

ESPN shows a list of writers in the Pac 12 footprint and how they voted in the polls...the two LA based writers both voted Utah #23. Most of the other writers in the conference have them anywhere from 17-14.

[concerned]

DJ and PK just had an interesting stat. There are five teams in the Pac 12 that control their own destiny, and could win the conference with no help. Utah is one. The other four? The next four teams on our schedule. This is why it is so great to be in this conference.

[Applejack]

I've read a couple of places (and heard it on the telecast last night) that this was Utah's biggest Pac-12 win.
What about Stanford last year?
Or UCLA this year?

Not to diminish a great game, but those were bigger wins (IMO).
Or am I wrong?

Maybe it's like Parcells used to say: you're only as good as your last game.

I'll rank our Top 5 Pac-12 wins:

1. Stanford (2013) - if they don't lose to Utah, that Stanford team had an argument for playing in the national championship game. That is the best team we have beaten, hands down. GIANT SLAYED!
2. USC (2014) - It's USC. This win legitimated Utah as a Pac-12 team.
3. UCLA (2014) - Coming off a tragic loss, and beating a then-Top 10 team on the road.
4. UCLA (2011) - After an 0-4 start to Pac-12 play Utah won 4 straight, including a win against a decent Bruins squad. More impressively, they did it with Jon Hays at QB.
5. Washington St (2011) - This win, in OT, seemed to clinch a Pac-12 South title in the Utes' inaugural year in the Pac-12. Stupid Buffs.

[utefan]

I'll rank our Top 5 Pac-12 wins:

1. Stanford (2013) - if they don't lose to Utah, that Stanford team had an argument for playing in the national championship game. That is the best team we have beaten, hands down. GIANT SLAYED!
2. USC (2014) - It's USC. This win legitimated Utah as a Pac-12 team.
3. UCLA (2014) - Coming off a tragic loss, and beating a then-Top 10 team on the road.
4. UCLA (2011) - After an 0-4 start to Pac-12 play Utah won 4 straight, including a win against a decent Bruins squad. More impressively, they did it with Jon Hays at QB.
5. Washington St (2011) - This win, in OT, seemed to clinch a Pac-12 South title in the Utes' inaugural year in the Pac-12. Stupid Buffs.

That 2011 Washington State game did not seem to clinch a Pac 12 South title at the time. As I recall, we were pretty much much eliminated from contention. Then there was an incredibly unlikely sequence of events that unfolded the last week of the season which meant Utah would have won the division if they just beat Colorado.

None of that was known or expected after that Washington State game.

[Applejack]

That 2011 Washington State game did not seem to clinch a Pac 12 South title at the time. As I recall, we were pretty much much eliminated from contention. Then there was an incredibly unlikely sequence of events that unfolded the last week of the season which meant Utah would have won the division if they just beat Colorado.

None of that was known or expected after that Washington State game.

Good point - I'd forgotten that we needed UCLA and ASU to choke on that last weekend. And they both did.

[LA Ute]

DJ and PK just had an interesting stat. There are five teams in the Pac 12 that control their own destiny, and could win the conference with no help. Utah is one. The other four? The next four teams on our schedule. This is why it is so great to be in this conference.

:clap:

[LA Ute]

ESPN shows a list of writers in the Pac 12 footprint and how they voted in the polls...the two LA based writers both voted Utah #23. Most of the other writers in the conference have them anywhere from 17-14.

For as cosmopolitan as L.A. claims to be as a city, as a sports town it has very provincial biases.

[DrumNFeather]

Oregon @ Utah set for a 10:00 PM (Eastern) kick on ESPN.

[sancho]

Oregon @ Utah set for a 10:00 PM (Eastern) kick on ESPN.

At this point, we have to consider that a good omen.

[DrumNFeather]

At this point, we have to consider that a good omen.


I know that LSU/Alabama is that weekend, but if Oregon and Utah both win this weekend...could we see the gameday crew roll into SLC?

[sancho]

I know that LSU/Alabama is that weekend, but if Oregon and Utah both win this weekend...could we see the gameday crew roll into SLC?

Michigan state vs Ohio state too.

[OrangeUte]

I am confident that we get a game day if both Utah and Oregon win.

[UBlender]

I am confident that we get a game day if both Utah and Oregon win.

Apparently there's some sort of promotion going on and GameDay has already booked itself for Michigan State on 11/8.

[OrangeUte]

Apparently there's some sort of promotion going on and GameDay has already booked itself for Michigan State on 11/8.

Too bad for gameday. Pac isn't getting much love this year and this is a helluva an exciting year in our conference. These late night games have all been spectacular!

[sancho]

Apparently there's some sort of promotion going on and GameDay has already booked itself for Michigan State on 11/8.

In that case, it would be hilarious if both MSU and OSU lose this weekend.

[UBlender]

In that case, it would be hilarious if both MSU and OSU lose this weekend.

Well, I want the PAC 12 represented in the playoff and even a second team in the NY6 (hopefully by Utah) so I am cheering against MSU and OSU (along with every other undefeated or one-loss team out there) every week. It also means my second favorite team is Oregon every week except for 11/8.

[Dwight Schr-Ute]

Everyone all over Twitter confirming yesterday's rumors that Dres' Utah career is over. Out for the remainder of the season with a knee injury. One the go ahead TD drive, he had the catch on the sideline and was taken down hard backwards. I didn't notice if he was in on any more plays after that, but that seemed as likely as a time for the injury as I can remember.

[Diehard Ute]

Everyone all over Twitter confirming yesterday's rumors that Dres' Utah career is over. Out for the remainder of the season with a knee injury. One the go ahead TD drive, he had the catch on the sideline and was taken down hard backwards. I didn't notice if he was in on any more plays after that, but that seemed as likely as a time for the injury as I can remember.

He was in blocking on the final TD

Meniscus injuries aren't necessarily ones that take you out of a game. Often show up after you cool down and the adrenaline is gone

[Sullyute]

Everyone all over Twitter confirming yesterday's rumors that Dres' Utah career is over. Out for the remainder of the season with a knee injury. One the go ahead TD drive, he had the catch on the sideline and was taken down hard backwards. I didn't notice if he was in on any more plays after that, but that seemed as likely as a time for the injury as I can remember.

Huge loss. I really liked Dres despite not putting up a lot of production this year. He has a super positive attitude and hopefully can still be a leader from the sideline. Time for the other receivers to step up their game.

[sancho]

Everyone all over Twitter confirming yesterday's rumors that Dres' Utah career is over. Out for the remainder of the season with a knee injury. One the go ahead TD drive, he had the catch on the sideline and was taken down hard backwards. I didn't notice if he was in on any more plays after that, but that seemed as likely as a time for the injury as I can remember.

This is about as big an injury as can happen. Devastating. The offense has not really clicked in the past month, but the ceiling for the offense is a million times higher with Dres than without him.

I guess Scott, Clay, and Patrick get to share the job now.

[Dwight Schr-Ute]

This is about as big an injury as can happen. Devastating. The offense has not really clicked in the past month, but the ceiling for the offense is a million times higher with Dres than without him.

I guess Scott, Clay, and Patrick get to share the job now.

I'm hoping that this opens the door for our young burners like McClellon and Young to sneak behind coverage for some big plays. (As long as they're as good at adjusting to underthrown balls as Dres was.)

[U-Ute]

In case anyone missed it, the official announcement came out just a bit ago. He is, indeed, done for the year.

One of many links (http://www.sltrib.com/sports/1758124-155/season-anderson-utah-yards-matthew-piper).

[Applejack]

This is about as big an injury as can happen. Devastating. The offense has not really clicked in the past month, but the ceiling for the offense is a million times higher with Dres than without him.

I guess Scott, Clay, and Patrick get to share the job now.

Tragic. Can we hire Norm Chow as a consultant to reconfigure this offense? Devontae is going to get a lot more attention all of the sudden.

[LA Ute]

Tragic. Can we hire Norm Chow as a consultant to reconfigure this offense? Devontae is going to get a lot more attention all of the sudden.

He'll be our main offensive threat, for all intensive purposes.

[U-Ute]

He'll be our main offensive threat, for all intensive purposes.

I'm not 100% sure of that. Without the threat of Dres going deep, that allows the safeties to play closer to the line and help contain Booker.

The emergence of Tonga last week, along with the increased time of Patrick and Klay gives me hope that we can find someone to keep those safeties occupied.

[Applejack]

I'm not 100% sure of that. Without the threat of Dres going deep, that allows the safeties to play closer to the line and help contain Booker.

The emergence of Tonga last week, along with the increased time of Patrick and Klay gives me hope that we can find someone to keep those safeties occupied.

Yeah, Tonga is the new Dres. He doesn't stretch the field hortzontally like Dres, but hopefully he'll occupy some linebackers.

[Dwight Schr-Ute]

Yeah, Tonga is the new Dres. He doesn't stretch the field hortzontally like Dres, but hopefully he'll occupy some linebackers.

This team gave me hope last weekend, being satisfied with the 10-15 yard outs instead of incompleted homeruns. I realize that we need long throws now and again to stretch the field, but our midrange game is how we'll keep winning games.

[LA Ute]

I'm not 100% sure of that. Without the threat of Dres going deep, that allows the safeties to play closer to the line and help contain Booker.

The emergence of Tonga last week, along with the increased time of Patrick and Klay gives me hope that we can find someone to keep those safeties occupied.

I was just teasing AJ for his malaprop.

[NorthwestUteFan]

He'll be our main offensive threat, for all intensive purposes.

Speaking of malapropisms...

[LA Ute]

Speaking of malapropisms...

No one is getting the joke. Maybe it's just unfantomable.

[U-Ute]

I was just teasing AJ for his malaprop.

I wondered what that was about. I must have missed the original.

[U-Ute]

Yeah, Tonga is the new Dres. He doesn't stretch the field hortzontally like Dres, but hopefully he'll occupy some linebackers.

I like the rolling pockets they executed last week. That helps to stretch things horizontally, and gives you options on the back side for screens and whatnot if the defense over commits.

[hostile]

This team gave me hope last weekend, being satisfied with the 10-15 yard outs instead of incompleted homeruns. I realize that we need long throws now and again to stretch the field, but our midrange game is how we'll keep winning games.

yep. Offense needs sustained drives that eat up time and keep the other QB on the bench. We won't be winning in shootouts this year.

[sancho]

yep. Offense needs sustained drives that eat up time and keep the other QB on the bench. We won't be winning in shootouts this year.

Those teams in shootouts are mostly just going short-to-mid range with the pass game too. They are just better at it, and they manage to turn their midrange catches into big plays on occasion.

[Applejack]

I was just teasing AJ for his malaprop.

:confused:

[LA Ute]

I wondered what that was about. I must have missed the original.

Suddenly you understand.

[UtahsMrSports]

Bummer. But, next man up.

[hostile]

Those teams in shootouts are mostly just going short-to-mid range with the pass game too. They are just better at it, and they manage to turn their midrange catches into big plays on occasion.

Fair enough. I don't see us doing that either.

[sancho]

Fair enough. I don't see us doing that either.

Yeah, especially not without Dres. It hadn't really happened yet this season, but he was great with yards after the catch last year.

[chrisrenrut]

Yeah, especially not without Dres. It hadn't really happened yet this season, but he was great with yards after the catch last year.

I think I got it. AJ said "all of THE sudden" instead of "all of a sudden".

LA used "all intensive purposes" to bust his chops.

Unfortunately, AJ's malaprop was't even a blimp on the radar for most readers.

[Applejack]

I think I got it. AJ said "all of THE sudden" instead of "all of a sudden".

LA used "all intensive purposes" to bust his chops.

U fortunately, AJ's malaprop was't even a blimp on the radar for most readers.

That's the malapropism? Sorry, LA, I got this one: http://motivatedgrammar.wordpress.com/2011/07/20/all-of-what-sudden/


Summary: All of a sudden is the standard idiom in contemporary English. All of the sudden is a newer non-standard variant that does not appear to be geographically localized. Interestingly, the sudden is the original form if you go back to the 1500s.

I'm both hipper and more original, while still being historically accurate!

[jrj84105]

"All of a sudden" reads like British English to me. I guess having lived mostly in downstate Illinois and Utah will do that.

I think "all of the sudden" is a fantastic idiom that lends itself, by being sort of a vocalized dramatic pause, to a more theatrical telling of a story. Suddenly falls short in this respect.

[jrj84105]

Back to football, I thought we had a few successful plays in the second half of the USC game passing out of a two TE set. Maybe some more of this?

[LA Ute]

That's the malapropism? Sorry, LA, I got this one: http://motivatedgrammar.wordpress.com/2011/07/20/all-of-what-sudden/



I'm both hipper and more original, while still being historically accurate!

I disagree with you irregardless.

[LA Ute]

Back to football, I thought we had a few successful plays in the second half of the USC game passing out of a two TE set. Maybe some more of this?

I was really pleased to see some creativity Saturday night. I'm excited to see what Christiansen comes up with for ASU.

[USS Utah]

He'll be our main offensive threat, for all intensive purposes.

Booker is an intensive runner.

Things will be more tense without Dres.

[U-Ute]

I was really pleased to see some creativity Saturday night. I'm excited to see what Christiansen comes up with for ASU.

I agree. The changes they made for USC filled me with hope.

[LA Ute]

Booker is an intensive runner.

Things will be more tense without Dres.

All of the sudden this situation is making some you look downright ignerent. You're responding on the spurt of the moment. As for me, I have failed to recognize the difference between a malaprop and an eggcorn.

[LA Ute]

No, it doesn’t seem like Utah can win the Pac-12 South, but the fact that we’re talking about this at all shows that the Utes have outpaced expectations so far, and an epic November is not out of the realm of possibility.

http://www.rantsports.com/ncaa-football/2014/10/28/can-utah-utes-win-the-pac-12-south/

[justaute]

Decent read on TCU's prolific offense this year.

http://grantland.com/the-triangle/tcu-horned-frogs-offensive-revolution-gary-patterson-trevone-boykin-big-12/

[OrangeUte]

So much for Louisville beating FSU. Jameis Winston does it again.

[justaute]

Too bad both teams couldn't lose.


So much for Louisville beating FSU. Jameis Winston does it again.

[Scorcho]

So much for Louisville beating FSU. Jameis Winston does it again.

is there any doubt he is living right on and off the field :blink:

[OrangeUte]

Haha! None. He's very blessed!

[LA Ute]

Pretty spicy article here on ESPN's SEC bias.

http://www.rollingstone.com/culture/features/the-worldwide-cheerleader-espn-and-the-college-football-playoff-20141028

(Hat tip: PAC-12 Hoops, a great blog to follow.)

http://pachoops.com/2014/10/three-for-bart-espn-rankings-murray/

[DrumNFeather]

Nice blog post about Booker: http://espn.go.com/blog/pac12/post/_/id/79640/bookers-roundabout-path-to-utah-rb

[Mormon Red Death]

I know it ain't happening but I was looking at Tiebreakers for if Utah wins out and ASU loses to Arizona and either USC or UCLA wins out (both distinct possibilities)


If its a tie between Utah, USC and ASU - ASU wins by virtue of beating the other two teams.


If its a tie between Utah, UCLA and ASU Utah would win because we would have only one divisional loss. If ASU lost to Oregon st or Wazzu instead of Ariz they would be divisional champs because UCLA is eliminated and then they beat us.

[DrumNFeather]

Utes stay at 17 in the playoff top 25. ASU at 9 and the Ducks at 4.

[OrangeUte]

Utes stay at 17 in the playoff top 25. ASU at 9 and the Ducks at 4.

http://m.espn.go.com/ncf/story?storyId=11822679&src=desktop

I love being in this conversation. Looking forward to Saturday's matchup. Rice Eccles is going to be a great place to be and should erupt for the team.

I would really like to hear the fans yell out "UUUUUUUUUUUU" the whole time that the ducks are on offense. That's what Autzen does )"OOOOOOOO") and it is loud and annoying and disruptive.

[justaute]

I just really like this Mariota kid; though, in different ways, remind me a bit of Andrew Luck.

http://www.oregonlive.com/ducks/index.ssf/2014/11/oregon_ducks_football_marcus_m_11.html#incart_rive r

[U-Ute]

I just really like this Mariota kid; though, in different ways, remind me a bit of Andrew Luck.

http://www.oregonlive.com/ducks/index.ssf/2014/11/oregon_ducks_football_marcus_m_11.html#incart_rive r

FWIW, last night on the coach'a show, Whittingham said Utah offered Mariotta before anyone else did. Then he kinda blew up, and the rest is history.

What could have been!

[justaute]

Candidly, if I were he, there'd be no chance I would want Utah. Utah's recent offensive history and coaching instability has been,...well, offensive.



FWIW, last night on the coach'a show, Whittingham said Utah offered Mariotta before anyone else did. Then he kinda blew up, and the rest is history.

What could have been!

[LA Ute]

What does anyone know about Donovan Isom? Is he DC's type of QB?

[Diehard Ute]

What does anyone know about Donovan Isom? Is he DC's type of QB?

They're redshirting him. That's about all I know

[Applejack]

FWIW, last night on the coach'a show, Whittingham said Utah offered Mariotta before anyone else did. Then he kinda blew up, and the rest is history.

What could have been!

The story is that Utah offered him first, way before others. But he was always a Duck fan (due to that Hawaiian QB they had a few years back). He went to a Duck camp in Eugene and killed folks, Oregon offered on the spot, and the rest is history.

[Rocker Ute]

The story is that Utah offered him first, way before others. But he was always a Duck fan (due to that Hawaiian QB they had a few years back). He went to a Duck camp in Eugene and killed folks, Oregon offered on the spot, and the rest is history.

Too bad, I would have loved to bitch about Mariotta.

[U-Ute]

What does anyone know about Donovan Isom? Is he DC's type of QB?

Nobody really knows. He seems to have the work ethic. Gunther mentioned just yesterday that Isom was the last guy off of the practice field. It was in the context of "Thompson was the last player off of the practice field, so we think he may be starting. Well, except for Isom. He was working too and stayed later. But Thompson was acting like a guy who thinks he is starting."

If not, he'll make an amazing DE.

[U-Ute]

Too bad, I would have loved to bitch about Mariotta.

You can still do it. In fact, I encourage it.

[LA Ute]

Nice article about how Poutasi ended up at Utah.

http://www.sltrib.com/sports/1784142-155/poutasi-abid-utah-tackle-oregon-classes?fullpage=1

[Rocker Ute]

You can still do it. In fact, I encourage it.

Something tells me I will be Saturday night.

[Diehard Ute]

Nobody really knows. He seems to have the work ethic. Gunther mentioned just yesterday that Isom was the last guy off of the practice field. It was in the context of "Thompson was the last player off of the practice field, so we think he may be starting. Well, except for Isom. He was working too and stayed later. But Thompson was acting like a guy who thinks he is starting."

If not, he'll make an amazing DE.

The Trib boys said Isom is always the last QB to leave the field. Said he stays and works on throws daily

[DrumNFeather]

Andy Phillips named a semifinalist for the Groza award. One of six repeat semifinalists from last year.

[OrangeUte]

I re read Monson's Op Ed piece about Sitake and the status of coach's salaries. It's too vague and devoid of anything other than Monson's own opinion.... Ultimate pot stirring piece. I don't buy that there is discord or that Hill is evil on that issue. Monson may be right but he doesn't give anything other than contracts that extend only through July 2015 and his own opinion to support.

He claims to have talked to folks close to Sitake but quotes nobody. Not even a "told to me by a close associate of Sitake who asked to remain unnamed".

I don't trust Monson and think he's being careless with this article.

If it was combined with more detail and quotes, I would give him the benefit of the doubt. But he hasn't earned the benefit of the doubt with his op Ed piece or his history as a unreliable journalist.

[DrumNFeather]

Here's all we need to happen in order to play in the Pac 12 Championship. Easy peasy.



Hypothetical No. 4 (five-team tie)


ASU splits vs. Oregon State/WSU and loses Arizona to finish 6-3.
UCLA beats Stanford, but loses to USC to finish 6-3.
USC beats UCLA, but loses to Cal to finish 6-3.
Arizona beats Washington and ASU, but loses to Utah to finish 6-3
Utah beats Stanford, Arizona and Colorado to finish 6-3.



...Nevermind that USC beat Cal last night. :)

[Sullyute]

I don't trust Monson

You could have saved yourself some time and just wrote that.

[OrangeUte]

Hahaha!

[Applejack]

OK, we're still alive in the Pac-12 South race! I've been doing some calculating.

It's pretty simple really, we need five games to all fall our way. If ANY of these things do not happen, we are eliminated:

1. Utah has to beat Arizona. (53% chance according to Vegas)
2. Utah has to beat Colorado. (80% chance according to me)
3. UCLA has to beat USC this weekend. (52% chance according to Vegas)
4. Stanford has to win at UCLA next weekend. (about a 40% chance based on my guess)
5. Arizona has to beat ASU next weekend. (about a 40% chance based on my guess.

Odds of all 5 of these games coming up UTAH: about 3.5%! I'll take those odds.

P.S. It looks like the ASU/WSU matchup is completely irrelevant to our Quest for the Crown. All we need from the Devils is a belly flop against Arizona.

[sancho]

1. Utah has to beat Arizona. (53% chance according to Vegas)


How many times have we been the favorite this season?



2. Utah has to beat Colorado. (80% chance according to me)


You can make it 90%. I'm going with my son, and we're gonna sit in sub-freezing temperatures. We're not doing it to take a loss.



3. UCLA has to beat USC this weekend. (52% chance according to Vegas)


I think USC is the better team. That Jale Mary really messed up their season.



4. Stanford has to win at UCLA next weekend. (about a 40% chance based on my guess)


Lower. How is Stanford going to beat UCLA? Unless they finally figure out how to use McCaffrey, the Cards seem hopeless offensively.



P.S. It looks like the ASU/WSU matchup is completely irrelevant to our Quest for the Crown. All we need from the Devils is a belly flop against Arizona.


Good, I can root for WSU with no hesitation.

[SoCalPat]

P.S. It looks like the ASU/WSU matchup is completely irrelevant to our Quest for the Crown. All we need from the Devils is a belly flop against Arizona.

My understanding is we win a 5-team tiebreaker. But if ASU loses to WSU, it becomes a 4-team tiebreaker. Do we win that one as well?

[SoCalPat]

How many times have we been the favorite this season?

This will be the fifth time Utah has been favored this year; the third time in league games.

Don't look now, but this is easily Utah's best year against the number since the Urban era. Currently 8-2 ATS. No one should be surprised that the over-under is 3-7.

[sancho]

Kinda crazy that we have wins against Michigan, UCLA, USC, and Stanford, that we are having our best season since joining this conference, and that we are in 5th place in our division. Stupid south - do not rise again!

[concerned]

Kinda crazy that we have wins against Michigan, UCLA, USC, and Stanford, that we are having our best season since joining this conference, and that we are in 5th place in our division. Stupid south - do not rise again!


Wilner suggests we request a transfer to the North

http://blogs.mercurynews.com/collegesports/2014/11/17/pac-12-football-wrap-oregon-state-rises-usc-rolls-washington-collapses-and-more/

BTW, good thing our game is a meaningful game on ESPN or we would have had that 11 am start time that is 10 am for ASU and WSU.

[sancho]

So, if Oregon could pick the south winner, who would they choose? I think their preference order would go Arizona (revenge), ASU (Mariotta would kill that blitz), UCLA (just not scary), Utah (they'd be a little worried to see us again), USC (the best offense/defense blend in the south, the best QB, and the most athletic team).

[sancho]

You can make it 90%. I'm going with my son, and we're gonna sit in sub-freezing temperatures. We're not doing it to take a loss.


By the way, when is the kickoff time for the CU game announced? They wouldn't stick us with a night game in the mountains would they? I'm cold just thinking about it.

[hostile]

My understanding is we win a 5-team tiebreaker. But if ASU loses to WSU, it becomes a 4-team tiebreaker. Do we win that one as well?
According to the SL trib (Goon, I think) we win a 4 team also.

[SoCalPat]

By the way, when is the kickoff time for the CU game announced? They wouldn't stick us with a night game in the mountains would they? I'm cold just thinking about it.

We should know today. I doubt the 6-day window gets used for this game.

[concerned]

By the way, when is the kickoff time for the CU game announced? They wouldn't stick us with a night game in the mountains would they? I'm cold just thinking about it.

Ill bet BYU - Cal gets that slot. There are 2 PAC 12 games on Friday, and USC plays ND. There will be a lot of slots to fill earlier in the day.

[SeattleUte]

I was thinking today that this Arizona game is the first game since Washington State that I actually believe we'll win. Then I see that the spread is -3.5 Utes.

It's scary to think how close we are to being undefeated or at least one loss. It's scary to think how close we are to being 3-7.

I think Whit is a very intelligent coach, whatever else his weaknesses (he's also a miraculous motivator; I've seen his ability to get the team in the right frame of mind work miracles repeatedly). He knows his team's limitations and knows how to play the game, against formiddable odds, to maximize its strengths like few other coaches can.

[Mormon Red Death]

My understanding is we win a 5-team tiebreaker. But if ASU loses to WSU, it becomes a 4-team tiebreaker. Do we win that one as well?
Yes cause we would have beaten everyone of the other tiebreakers. Essentially we only lose a tiebreaker to ASU (assuming we win out)

[Applejack]

I was thinking today that this Arizona game is the first game since Washington State that I actually believe we'll win. Then I see that the spread is -3.5 Utes.

It's scary to think how close we are to being undefeated or at least one loss. It's scary to think how close we are to being 3-7.

I think Whit is a very intelligent coach, whatever else his weaknesses (he's also a miraculous motivator; I've seen his ability to get the team in the right frame of mind work miracles repeatedly). He knows his team's limitations and knows how to play the game, against formiddable odds, to maximize its strengths like few other coaches can.

Maybe it's because I'm an eternal Ute-football pessimist, but the Arizona game seems like a really tough match-up for us.

This Utah teams is going to play almost every team close: that includes really good teams like USC and bad teams like Washington State. Because of our offensive ineptitude, we aren't blowing anyone away. That's why I think we are better matched with other defensive grinding teams like Stanford than we are with the high-powered teams like Arizona/ASU.

I think that also means that the (gulp) the Colorado game might be a tough out as well.

[sancho]

Maybe it's because I'm an eternal Ute-football pessimist, but the Arizona game seems like a really tough match-up for us.

This Utah teams is going to play almost every team close: that includes really good teams like USC and bad teams like Washington State. Because of our offensive ineptitude, we aren't blowing anyone away. That's why I think we are better matched with other defensive grinding teams like Stanford than we are with the high-powered teams like Arizona/ASU.

I think that also means that the (gulp) the Colorado game might be a tough out as well.

I agree, but it is encouraging that we slowed ASU's offense down three weeks ago. Oregon's offense could do whatever it wanted against us.

Somehow, UCLA is the only defense to stop Zona completely. UW, USC, and UTSA all held them under 30, so 20-30 seems like a reasonable target for us. We'll need some points, that's for sure.

[concerned]

By the way, when is the kickoff time for the CU game announced? They wouldn't stick us with a night game in the mountains would they? I'm cold just thinking about it.


The colorado game will be either 11 am or noon.

[DrumNFeather]

Pac 12 Blog QB Rankings...Wilson checks in at #4:




4
http://a.espncdn.com/photo/2014/1116/ncf_a_twilts_65x90.jpgTravis Wilson (http://espn.go.com/college-football/player/_/id/531051/travis-wilson), Utah
(Last Week's Ranking: No. 5)
Facing one of the nation's best defenses in Stanford, Wilson's job involved managing a mistake-free game that would put the Utes into winning position. He did just that, completing 75 percent of his passes for 177 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions in a 20-17 win in over double overtime. Wilson ran for a score to tie the game in regulation, and he made the completions in overtime to give the Utes the opportunity to win. A clutch slant pass to Kenneth Scott (http://espn.go.com/college-football/player/_/id/503054/kenneth-scott) delivered the walk-off victory.

[Applejack]

Pac 12 Blog QB Rankings...Wilson checks in at #4:

Are these rankings based just on the past week? If so, I might be able to get on board. Wilson has become a decent game manager if he could get rid of those two or three drive-killing sacks that are largely his fault.

[LA Ute]

Are these rankings based just on the past week? If so, I might be able to get on board. Wilson has become a decent game manager if he could get rid of those two or three drive-killing sacks that are largely his fault.

I do like the the kid a lot but I wonder: why can't he seem to learn not to do that? His pocket presence is so variable. Do we blame the coaches, or Travis, or all of them?:

[Diehard Ute]

Are these rankings based just on the past week? If so, I might be able to get on board. Wilson has become a decent game manager if he could get rid of those two or three drive-killing sacks that are largely his fault.

Yes. They're based on the most current body of work. On bye weeks the players dropped out of the ranking

[DrumNFeather]

I do like the the kid a lot but I wonder: why can't he seem to learn not to do that? His pocket presence is so variable. Do we blame the coaches, or Travis, or all of them?:

That at least seems like something that is correctable. Keep in mind too that on a number of those picks last year, we all probably would've been happy to have him take the sack versus make a bad throw. He's shown a lot of toughness this year.

[Applejack]

That at least seems like something that is correctable. Keep in mind too that on a number of those picks last year, we all probably would've been happy to have him take the sack versus make a bad throw. He's shown a lot of toughness this year.

Agreed on his toughness. He's one of the tougher QBs we've ever had. And, of course, a sack is better than a pick. But there are 2-3 plays a game where the pocket collapses, Travis notices it collapsing, and he tries to scramble (not run) when he should just throw it away. With most offenses, it would be a nit-picky complaint (and it still is, to some degree) - but with our lifeless offense those plays are drive killers.

[DrumNFeather]

Agreed on his toughness. He's one of the tougher QBs we've ever had. And, of course, a sack is better than a pick. But there are 2-3 plays a game where the pocket collapses, Travis notices it collapsing, and he tries to scramble (not run) when he should just throw it away. With most offenses, it would be a nit-picky complaint (and it still is, to some degree) - but with our lifeless offense those plays are drive killers.

No doubt. I do like how he has taken care of the football (knock on wood) this season. If he could somehow solve some of the other things, he could certainly help this team have a similar season or better in 2015. I know that is a cringe worthy comment to some who want out of the Travis Wilson business.

[concerned]

That at least seems like something that is correctable. Keep in mind too that on a number of those picks last year, we all probably would've been happy to have him take the sack versus make a bad throw. He's shown a lot of toughness this year.

\
Some friends of mine were sitting next to TW's uncle at the Stanford game, who said several times "its all in his head. its all in his head." I agree with that, and I dont think it will ever change. He cant stay in the pocket and he cant make his reads.

[jrj84105]

\
Some friends of mine were sitting next to TW's uncle at the Stanford game, who said several times "its all in his head. its all in his head." I agree with that, and I dont think it will ever change. He cant stay in the pocket and he cant make his reads.
TW is essentially a RS sophomore who mistakenly played during his redshirt year. There is still time for him to improve in the mental aspects. He already quit throwing the INT. Next year we'll know if he really has the potentially to grasp an offense when he's had two years in the same system.

[Rocker Ute]

I re read Monson's Op Ed piece about Sitake and the status of coach's salaries. It's too vague and devoid of anything other than Monson's own opinion.... Ultimate pot stirring piece. I don't buy that there is discord or that Hill is evil on that issue. Monson may be right but he doesn't give anything other than contracts that extend only through July 2015 and his own opinion to support.

He claims to have talked to folks close to Sitake but quotes nobody. Not even a "told to me by a close associate of Sitake who asked to remain unnamed".

I don't trust Monson and think he's being careless with this article.

If it was combined with more detail and quotes, I would give him the benefit of the doubt. But he hasn't earned the benefit of the doubt with his op Ed piece or his history as a unreliable journalist.

If nothing else, Hill not extending his contract has turned out to be a favor for Sitake, he holds all the cards now. If Sitake is truly bent about this still he doesn't get what he has, and I think he is smart enough to get what he has.

[DrumNFeather]

Up to #17.

#19 USC
#15 Arizona
#13 ASU
#9 UCLA
#2 Oregon

[concerned]

TW is essentially a RS sophomore who mistakenly played during his redshirt year. There is still time for him to improve in the mental aspects. He already quit throwing the INT. Next year we'll know if he really has the potentially to grasp an offense when he's had two years in the same system.


I will bet your first born child that Manning has a better grasp right now than TW does.

[LA Ute]

Up to #17.

#19 USC
#15 Arizona
#13 ASU
#9 UCLA
#2 Oregon

5 of 6 schools in the South are ranked. Amazing.

[Diehard Ute]

4 of 5 schools in the South are ranked. Amazing.

5 of 6

[LA Ute]

5 of 6

I corrected it before you posted that!

[Diehard Ute]

I corrected it before you posted that!

My post is proof

[LA Ute]

Anyway, it's an amazingly competitive division. According to Riley on ESPN700 (I haven't checked) that is more ranked teams than there are in the vaunted SEC West.

[Dwight Schr-Ute]

If nothing else, Hill not extending his contract has turned out to be a favor for Sitake, he holds all the cards now. If Sitake is truly bent about this still he doesn't get what he has, and I think he is smart enough to get what he has.

I agree with this. He's going to get a nice raise this off season. I just hope that it's Utah that's cutting the checks.

I would also add that if Sitake truly is bent about not getting extended, he clearly doesn't understand coaching politics well enough to be ready for a head coaching position.

[utefan]

If nothing else, Hill not extending his contract has turned out to be a favor for Sitake, he holds all the cards now. If Sitake is truly bent about this still he doesn't get what he has, and I think he is smart enough to get what he has.
I don't think an extension would have mattered much. If he gets an offer to be a head coach after this season, he would have got that same offer either way.

I really doubt Utah would have prevented him from speaking with other teams about a head coaching position, under contract or not.

[Rocker Ute]

I don't think an extension would have mattered much. If he gets an offer to be a head coach after this season, he would have got that same offer either way.

I really doubt Utah would have prevented him from speaking with other teams about a head coaching position, under contract or not.

But if he chooses to stay he is negotiating as a hot commodity vs a DC on a team coming of two losing seasons. Like I said he holds all the cards now.

[Applejack]

Nate Orchard for Heisman? Dennis Dodd's heisman rankings:


1, Mariota2. J.T. Barrett3.Melvin Gordon4. Amari Cooper5. Nate Orchard, Utah

Let's get the Utah marketing department on this ASAP!

[mpfunk]

Nate Orchard for Heisman? Dennis Dodd's heisman rankings:



Let's get the Utah marketing department on this ASAP!

As soon as they are on it, I'm sure he will rocket into the top 3. They are certainly great at what they do. Did you ever see that video with the players pointing to the Huntsman Center, it should have won awards.

[Dwight Schr-Ute]

As soon as they are on it, I'm sure he will rocket into the top 3. They are certainly great at what they do. Did you ever see that video with the players pointing to the Huntsman Center, it should have won awards.

In fairness, they seem to have improved a great deal this year. (Unless that awful song video was from this year.) But it seems like they finally hired someone that has at least heard of Facebook and Instagram.

[LA Ute]

A rare fun read from Gordon Monson. (http://www.sltrib.com/sports/1841103-155/utes-utah-win-team-offense-whittingham) Excerpt:


The Utes are a group you’d want on your side in a yard fight. Ask any opponent, all the opponents, Utah has faced this season and they’ll come clean with it: These guys are full-on grown men who do not quit, who do not fade, who do not feel sorry for themselves in the face of adversity, who do not get their daubers down. They wear red, but they are kings of the black and blue. If you’re going to take them out, you’re going to earn that with execution and with blood, sweat and fears.

Beat the Utes and you’ll celebrate the victory with an ice bath.

[Applejack]

Nate Orchard for Heisman? Dennis Dodd's heisman rankings:



Let's get the Utah marketing department on this ASAP!

The Outland Trophy is supposed to name 6 or 7 finalists for the award tomorrow. Knowing nothing about this award (interior lineman? who talks like that?), is there a chance that Nate is named tomorrow?

[Diehard Ute]

The Outland Trophy is supposed to name 6 or 7 finalists for the award tomorrow. Knowing nothing about this award (interior lineman? who talks like that?), is there a chance that Nate is named tomorrow?

He wasn't even on the watch list so I'm guessing no chance

[Applejack]

He wasn't even on the watch list so I'm guessing no chance

Really? Is the watchlist anything more than preseason propaganda for the award committee? I can't imagine that not making that list precludes a player from at least being considered.

Now he may left off because he's not one of the best 6-7 interior lineman in the nation, I really don't know. But to be left off because he wasn't selected preseason? That seems odd.

[Diehard Ute]

Really? Is the watchlist anything more than preseason propaganda for the award committee? I can't imagine that not making that list precludes a player from at least being considered.

Now he may left off because he's not one of the best 6-7 interior lineman in the nation, I really don't know. But to be left off because he wasn't selected preseason? That seems odd.

Their list is usually OT/G heavy with some DT thrown in

Star Lotuleilei wasn't a finalist for reference

[UTEopia]

If nothing else, Hill not extending his contract has turned out to be a favor for Sitake, he holds all the cards now. If Sitake is truly bent about this still he doesn't get what he has, and I think he is smart enough to get what he has.

I doubt the failure to extend the contract is an issue. When was the last time a contract prevented a coach from leaving to go elsewhere? Never. If Sitake wants to leave, he will. If he doesn't, he won't. He should see a nice bump in his salary if he chooses to stay. If he goes to another P5 as a DC he will also see a nice bump. If he goes to a non P5 has a HC, he might take a hair cut, but that is often what is required to become a HC.

[Applejack]

The Bronko Nagurski Trophy (best defensive player in CFB) also announces finalists tomorrow. Nate has 17 sacks with two games to go. He's currently tied for the fourth-most sacks ever in a single season since the NCAA began officially tracking sacks (2000). He could easily end up as high as second on that list (20) before the season is over. He probably can't touch Terrell Suggs' 24-sack season, but he is definitely in the conversation for best defensive player of the year.

[utefan]

The Bronko Nagurski Trophy (best defensive player in CFB) also announces finalists tomorrow. Nate has 17 sacks with two games to go. He's currently tied for the fourth-most sacks ever in a single season since the NCAA began officially tracking sacks (2000). He could easily end up as high as second on that list (20) before the season is over. He probably can't touch Terrell Suggs' 24-sack season, but he is definitely in the conversation for best defensive player of the year.
4 sacks in each of the next 2 games? He probably won't get there, but it's not that far fetched.

[FountainOfUte]

4 sacks in each of the next 2 games? He probably won't get there, but it's not that far fetched.

Do post season stats not count? If they do, I think he has a decent shot at it.

[Applejack]

Do post season stats not count? If they do, I think he has a decent shot at it.

No. He's not getting to 24 sacks, people. Two straight games with four sacks would probably be a record unto itself.

[Diehard Ute]

No. He's not getting to 24 sacks, people. Two straight games with four sacks would probably be a record unto itself.

Bowl games actually count now. That was changed a few years ago

[Diehard Ute]

Gionni Paul is done for the season with a foot injury. Jason Whittingham will be available for Saturday.

[LA Ute]

Gionni Paul is done for the season with a foot injury. Jason Whittingham will be available for Saturday.

Too bad, that is a loss. Do you know if it the same foot that he injured before?

[Dwight Schr-Ute]

Too bad, that is a loss. Do you know if it the same foot that he injured before?

Hostile can speak more to this than I ever could but I remember hearing that his injury takes quite a while to fully recover from. My guess is that not only is it the same foot but also the same injury. Playing on it week in and week out never allowed it to heal completely.

[Diehard Ute]

Too bad, that is a loss. Do you know if it the same foot that he injured before?

They used the word "lingering" so I'm guessing it is


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[hostile]

Hostile can speak more to this than I ever could but I remember hearing that his injury takes quite a while to fully recover from. My guess is that not only is it the same foot but also the same injury. Playing on it week in and week out never allowed it to heal completely.

i don't know what his specific injury was other than it was a fracture of one of the several bones in the foot. Maybe it was a stress - type fracture that they tried to treat with rest but never healed. Surgery on the foot for an athlete is certainly concerning given the stress and force that the foot is under.

He has had a great year and I'm hoping we see him back at full strength in the spring.

[Diehard Ute]

i don't know what his specific injury was other than it was a fracture of one of the several bones in the foot. Maybe it was a stress - type fracture that they tried to treat with rest but never healed. Surgery on the foot for an athlete is certainly concerning given the stress and force that the foot is under.

He has had a great year and I'm hoping we see him back at full strength in the spring.

The fact that he had surgery already helps, better than waiting a month or two to see if treatment works

[DrumNFeather]

Fun blog post today with video of our specialists doing special things: http://espn.go.com/blog/pac12/post/_/id/80859/utahs-specialists-are-people-too

[Sullyute]

Fun blog post today with video of our specialists doing special things: http://espn.go.com/blog/pac12/post/_/id/80859/utahs-specialists-are-people-too

That was pretty cool.

[OrangeUte]

Boston college just crapped away a good chance against Winston and FSU.

[LA Ute]

It is a surreal (but great) feeling to be watching the UCLA-USC game here in L.A. and realizing that we beat both of these teams. It's also just a tad bittersweet after today's game.

[DrumNFeather]

We stayed in the poll...which is pretty amazing, though given our losses does make sense. It also means that a win this week and a bowl victory will have us finishing in the top 25. Huge for momentum into the off-season, huge for recruiting.

[LA Ute]

We stayed in the poll...which is pretty amazing, though given our losses does make sense. It also means that a win this week and a bowl victory will have us finishing in the top 25. Huge for momentum into the off-season, huge for recruiting.

The only 4-loss team in the poll.

[sancho]

The only 4-loss team in the poll.

They seem to like the Pac-12. I think there are a handful of 4 loss teams out there who are better than us.

[Applejack]

They seem to like the Pac-12. I think there are a handful of 4 loss teams out there who are better than us.

Who do you rank ahead of us with 4 losses? I'd put LSU ahead of Utah, but can't think of anyone else off the top of my head.

[sancho]

Who do you rank ahead of us with 4 losses? I'd put LSU ahead of Utah, but can't think of anyone else off the top of my head.

Does better mean better resume, or does it mean I think we would beat that team?

Anyway, here are the 4+ loss teams Sagarin ranks ahead of us:

LSU, Arkansas, Texas A&M, Florida, USC, Stanford, West Virginia, Tennessee, Notre Dame, and South Carolina

We have a better resume than some of these in terms of quality wins. But Sagarin also takes margin of victory into account.

[Applejack]

Does better mean better resume, or does it mean I think we would beat that team?

Anyway, here are the 4+ loss teams Sagarin ranks ahead of us:

LSU, Arkansas, Texas A&M, Florida, USC, Stanford, West Virginia, Tennessee, Notre Dame, and South Carolina

We have a better resume than some of these in terms of quality wins. But Sagarin also takes margin of victory into account.

I'm a resume guy - I think rankings should reflect what you've done over an entire year, not how "good" you are in a particular moment.

So, I put us ahead of USC (beat 'em), Stanford (beat 'em), Arkansas (even though they'd kill us if we played this week), Notre Dame (their best win is Stanford), Tennessee (sorry, losing to a lot of really good teams only earns you so much love),

West Virginia is harder. They have a great win (Baylor) and a ton of tough losses (TCU, Alabama, Kansas St, Oklahoma). But the only middle-of-the-road team they've played beat them soundly (Texas). I take Utah.

Of the other SEC teams, I think LSU clearly has a better resume. A&M probably does too. Florida doesn't, but if they beat FSU this week (which is possible) they would clearly jump us.

[Applejack]

Tom Hackett is named one of the three finalists (http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865616444/Utah-football-Punter-Tom-Hackett-finalist-for-Ray-Guy-Award.html?pg=all) for the Ray Guy Award. He's up against the punters from Idaho and Alabama.

Louie Sakoda was a finalist his senior year but didn't win.

[sancho]

Tom Hackett is named one of the three finalists (http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865616444/Utah-football-Punter-Tom-Hackett-finalist-for-Ray-Guy-Award.html?pg=all) for the Ray Guy Award. He's up against the punters from Idaho and Alabama.

Louie Sakoda was a finalist his senior year but didn't win.

To reward him, we should give him a day off on Saturday.

[chrisrenrut]

If things hold up as of right now, everything we needed to happen to win the South division will happen except us winning the game we needed. 2011 deja vu, sort of.

[sancho]

If things hold up as of right now, everything we needed to happen to win the South division will happen except us winning the game we needed. 2011 deja vu, sort of.

Really stinks. But in 2011, we lost to a truly awful team. This time, we were beat by a quality team. Still stinks.

[Applejack]

If things hold up as of right now, everything we needed to happen to win the South division will happen except us winning the game we needed. 2011 deja vu, sort of.

I feel better knowing that we were 30+ points short against a Top 15 team, rather than a close game with multiple missed fgs against a team that had only 1 other conference victory.

Edit: Sancho beat me to it.

[DrumNFeather]

If things hold up as of right now, everything we needed to happen to win the South division will happen except us winning the game we needed. 2011 deja vu, sort of.
So, will Arizona then win the south if the results hold?

[sancho]

So, will Arizona then win the south if the results hold?

Oregon-Arizona rematch would be fun. Zona has two in a row over the Ducks.

[Applejack]

So, will Arizona then win the south if the results hold?

Yes, they'd be the only 2 loss team.

[sancho]

I was kinda hoping Graham would win today. I think it's more likely he would accept a HC position at a power program than RichRod. Rich was burned by the Michigan experience.

If neither of them leaves, the only shake ups in the conference will be assistants.

[DrumNFeather]

I was kinda hoping Graham would win today. I think it's more likely he would accept a HC position at a power program than RichRod. Rich was burned by the Michigan experience.

If neither of them leaves, the only shake ups in the conference will be assistants.
Rich Rod has got to be a candidate at Florida.

Graham...wouldn't it be ironic if he went to Michigan.

[concerned]

Rich Rod has got to be a candidate at Florida.

Graham...wouldn't it be ironic if he went to Michigan.

Foley said a week or two ago that Richrod and Mullen are not candidates, FWIW.

[sancho]

Foley said a week or two ago that Richrod and Mullen are not candidates, FWIW.

Why do I never hear David Cutcliffe's name for these job openings? To take Duke to a division title and back-to-back bowl games is as impressive a feat as there can be.

[SoCalPat]

Why do I never hear David Cutcliffe's name for these job openings? To take Duke to a division title and back-to-back bowl games is as impressive a feat as there can be.

ADs at football schools aren't gonna hire a guy who refuses to do what the AD says. Cutcliffe was fired at Ole Miss after he refused to fire some assistants after his first losing season.

[DrumNFeather]

On this thanksgiving weekend and final day of the regular season, I am grateful that this is not also the last day of our team's season. Even if we end up in the Vegas bowl (I hope not) on the early side of the bowl schedule, I'm glad that this team will have another month to practice, and a much much shorter time period between the end of the season and spring ball. Despite all of the challenges going into this season after the last two years, this team stepped up to get some big wins this year.

[chrisrenrut]

The JIC train is in the station!!!!!

[Jarid in Cedar]

The JIC train is in the station!!!!!

Damn straight! I got the record correct, the team's we beat were not as anticipated. Still take it, though

[LA Ute]

This is a UF.net post worth reading:

http://utefans.net/message.php?id=1679749

[concerned]

This is a UF.net post worth reading:


You say that as though it is an aberration (tic).

[LA Ute]

You say that as though it is an aberration (tic).

Not quite, but close.

[Dwight Schr-Ute]

Another.

http://utefans.net/message.php?id=1679780

[SoCalPat]

Scoring was up, but so were non-offensive TDs. We had eight such TDs last year, compared to only two last year.

"Pure" offense PPG last year was 28 PPG. This year, it was 25.5 PPG. Turnovers and special teams truly were the reason behind our increase of 3 wins.

[LA Ute]

This is cool:

RB Devontae Booker heads Utah’s Pac-12-high 23 academic honorees (http://www.sltrib.com/blogs/1893777-155/rb-devontae-booker-heads-utahs-pac-12-high)

To be eligible for selection to the All-Academic first team, second team, or honorable mention, a player required a 3.0 and an appearance in 50 percent of his team’s games. Twenty-three Utes were honored in all, the most of any Pac-12 team (Stanford was second, with 18).

[sancho]

All conference team to be announced tonight. The Utes could have up to 4 first team players: Nate, Andy, Devonte, and Tom. I think Nate and Tom are locks.

[justaute]

Happy to see TCU #3 in CFP -- what excuse are those few just-look-at-TCU-also-playing-poorly Utah fans will use next?

[Diehard Ute]

Utes with 5 first team All Pac: Booker, Orchard, Hackett, Phillips and Clay as a returner. 2nd team Poutasi. Honorable Mention: Blechen, Rowe, Lotulelei, Norris and Dimick.

[hostile]

Utes with 5 first team All Pac: Booker, Orchard, Hackett, Phillips and Clay as a returner. 2nd team Poutasi. Honorable Mention: Blechen, Rowe, Lotulelei, Norris and Dimick.
That's pretty good. Better than I would have thought. Nice to see Lotulelei in there.

[justaute]

Mariota...what a great kid. And, he's a science major, even more kudos from me -- not that it means much.

http://pac-12.com/videos/marcus-mariota-being-named-2014-pac-12-offensive-player-year

[Diehard Ute]

Just saw Trevor Mattich breaking down the playoff scenarios on espn. The hosts asked him what happens if Alabama loses. He said the SEC won't have a team in the playoff. The hosts were flabbergasted that he would suggest the mighty SEC isn't guaranteed a spot. It was funny and sad at the same time

[concerned]

Just saw Trevor Mattich breaking down the playoff scenarios on espn. The hosts asked him what happens if Alabama loses. He said the SEC won't have a team in the playoff. The hosts were flabbergasted that he would suggest the mighty SEC isn't guaranteed a spot. It was funny and sad at the same time


I would bet that unless Alabama gets completely humiliated, it wont fall farther than 4. matich must also be assuming that everyone else will win, which is not a given for Oregon, FSU, OSU or Baylor.

[Diehard Ute]

I would bet that unless Alabama gets completely humiliated, it wont fall farther than 4. matich must also be assuming that everyone else will win, which is not a given for Oregon, FSU, OSU or Baylor.

He was. His point was the next ranked SEC team lost to Alabama, which be feels doesn't give them any argument to put a 2 loss SEC team in.

[LA Ute]

1323

[Dwight Schr-Ute]

1323

Pretty damn impressive. It would be even more impressive if 3 of the 5 weren't on there because of special teams.

[LA Ute]

Pretty damn impressive. It would be even more impressive if 3 of the 5 weren't on there because of special teams.

I was very impressed too, but more impressed, frankly, by the Ute representation on the All-Academic team. (We had the most, ahead of Stanford.) Booker as the top scholar on the team was a pleasant surprise. He doesn't sound like a scholar. Goes to show how appearances can be deceptive.

[SoCalPat]

I was very impressed too, but more impressed, frankly, by the Ute representation on the All-Academic team. (We had the most, ahead of Stanford.) Booker as the top scholar on the team was a pleasant surprise. He doesn't sound like a scholar. Goes to show how appearances can be deceptive.

You could say the same thing about All-Academic teams as well. Look at how many kids have a major of Undeclared. Sociology and Liberal Studies.

[utefan]

Pretty damn impressive. It would be even more impressive if 3 of the 5 weren't on there because of special teams.
It looks like Utah has play makers in every facet of the game.

Offense: Booker
Defense: Orchard
Kicking: Philips
Punting: Hackett
Returns: Clay

That's pretty well balanced.

[LA Ute]

You could say the same thing about All-Academic teams as well. Look at how many kids have a major of Undeclared. Sociology and Liberal Studies.

Yeah, Booker's a Sociology major. Still, he's going to class and doing the work. The U. has a very good academic support program and deserves props for that. (It goes 'way beyond tutors and such.)

[concerned]

Yeah, Booker's a Sociology major. Still, he's going to class and doing the work. The U. has a very good academic support program and deserves props for that. (It goes 'way beyond tutors and such.)

Lets hope it doesn't go as far as Carolina

[LA Ute]

Lets hope it doesn't go as far as Carolina

From what I've seen it's very admirable and squeaky clean, but who really knows?

[Dwight Schr-Ute]

Ha ha. Tony Sanchez is about to take a demotion from coaching the best high school program in the nation to becoming the new HC for UNLV. Poor guy is about to be reminded what being poor feels like. PS., the Purple MAACO people should really consider holding the Las Vegas Bowl at the Bishop Gorman stadium instead of Sam Boyd.

[Applejack]

So the openings now are:

- Colorado State
- Oregon State
- Michigan

I still think Sitake makes too much sense at CSU. He obviously won't get the Michigan job - the real question is what spot opens up once Michigan hires.

Oregon State is the real wild card for us. Rumors of Dennis, possibilities of Sitake, etc.

[sancho]

So the openings now are:

- Colorado State
- Oregon State
- Michigan



Houston and Tulsa too. Not sure how those jobs would domino to Utah, but you never know. They might be the type of schools to hire P5 assistants.

I don't see why Sitake to CSU makes a lot of sense. It seems like it would be a regional fit, but it's not. Those rocky mountains are a much bigger divider than people think.

[Diehard Ute]

Ha ha. Tony Sanchez is about to take a demotion from coaching the best high school program in the nation to becoming the new HC for UNLV. Poor guy is about to be reminded what being poor feels like. PS., the Purple MAACO people should really consider holding the Las Vegas Bowl at the Bishop Gorman stadium instead of Sam Boyd.

Word is money is why he's being hired, as in he's got the money behind him and it's going to UNLV as long as they hire him

[Dwight Schr-Ute]

Word is money is why he's being hired, as in he's got the money behind him and it's going to UNLV as long as they hire him

Yeah. I've heard that. The real question is if they can keep him around long enough for any of that money to be applied to something useful. One benefit is that UNLV probably has a shot of several Bishop Gorman kids that they otherwise wouldn't.

1327

[sancho]

So the openings now are:

- Colorado State
- Oregon State
- Michigan

I still think Sitake makes too much sense at CSU. He obviously won't get the Michigan job - the real question is what spot opens up once Michigan hires.

Oregon State is the real wild card for us. Rumors of Dennis, possibilities of Sitake, etc.

Ok, so Oregon State just hired Gary Anderson. That means the openings are:

Michigan
Wisconsin
Colorado State
Tulsa
Houston

Any chance the thief Gary Anderson takes any of our coaches to work with him in Corvallis? I guess he will take his LDS recruits with him, but maybe we can make another sales pitch to them.

[Applejack]

Ok, so Oregon State just hired Gary Anderson. That means the openings are:

Michigan
Wisconsin
Colorado State
Tulsa
Houston

Any chance the thief Gary Anderson takes any of our coaches to work with him in Corvallis? I guess he will take his LDS recruits with him, but maybe we can make another sales pitch to them.

What?!??!?!? Where are you seeing this?

That means he would absolutely come to Utah.

[NorthwestUteFan]

So does Chris Hill pick up a phone and try to sway Andersen away from OSU?

[Diehard Ute]

So does Chris Hill pick up a phone and try to sway Andersen away from OSU?

With? We still have a coach.

[Diehard Ute]

What?!??!?!? Where are you seeing this?

That means he would absolutely come to Utah.

Portland Tribune reported it.

Chicago reporter also is tweeting it. Saying he'd heard Gary got along well with Alvarez but missed the west.