Utah Utes
· 2026-07-04
The Utah Utes are poised to make a strong run in the Big 12 preseason rankings, with many analysts predicting a top three finish.
The Utes finished third in the Big 12 last season, behind Texas Tech and BYU, and will look to improve on that record with a new offensive and defensive line.
Utah has a lot to replace, including their top three pass catchers and key players in the secondary.
Devon Dampier is back and should be one of the conference's top three quarterbacks, while Byrd Ficklin and Wayshawn Parker will take on larger roles.
The wide receiver core looks improved despite the loss of Ryan Davis.
The Utes start the season with several favorable matchups, including their next game vs Idaho Vandals on 2026-09-04, and most of their toughest games are at Rice-Eccles Stadium.
Utah has questions, but any team going in their place also has major weaknesses, such as Houston's tendency to suffer bad losses.
Morgan Scalley will take over for Kyle Whittingham, and the Utes will look to replace outstanding coaches who left for Michigan.
The Utes won 11 games last year, and not all of the key players from that team now reside in Ann Arbor.
Utah has a lot to figure out, but with several key returns and a favorable schedule, they are a safe bet to finish in the top three yet again.
The Utes will need to address their issues stopping the run and replace their lost talent.
Other teams, such as Arizona and Oklahoma State, have needs they must address before they can be considered among the Big 12's elite.
Utah's preseason ranking will depend on how they can overcome their losses and gel as a team.
The next few months will be crucial in determining the Utes' chances of finishing top three in the Big 12.