With the opener against No. 15 ranked Pittsburgh less than two weeks away, Utah coach Kyle Whittingham decided it was best to rest his starters and see what his backups could do.
The results were better than expected.
“Overall, camp was a positive and this (scrimmage) was a good conclusion,” said Whittingham. “I think we’re right on track. We’re a little banged up, but we’ll start getting some guys back next week, which will help with continuity.”
The two-a-days concluded with a 70-play scrimmage at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Situational drills such as two-minute and red zone were the focus of the day, as the Utes continued preparations for the Panthers.
On offense, backup quarterback Terrance Cain threw 14-for-18 passes for 227 yards and two touchdowns. The top receiver was DeVonte Christopher, who hauled in four catches for 81 yards. Things are getting complicated at wide receiver, however, as the Utes have now welcomed two more JUCO transfers, Mo Lee and Dexter Ransom.
“There’s a steep learning curve at receiver,” said Whittingham. “But Mo Lee and Dexter Ransom are getting up to speed and I am confident they will be ready to contribute (this season).”
Rushing wasn’t a high point on Saturday. The defense held stiff, allowing very little on the ground (high was Tauni Vakapuna with 27 yards on nine carries).
The player who felt the defensive impact the most was starting quarterback Jordan Wynn, who despite being held out of live action for safety precautions had a terrible afternoon and went nine-for-20 for 147 yards and two interceptions.
Leading the defense was Neli A’asa and Chad Manis, who picked Wynn’s pocket. Three players, including Joe Kruger, had a sack.
The kicking game was good, though, as Lou Groza award candidate Joe Phillips kicked three field goals including a 48-yarder to begin the scrimmage.
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