Utah Utes Prepare to Face Utah State and Iowa State

The Utah Utes are set to kick off their 2026 season, and with under 100 days to go, the team is preparing to face off against Utah State and Iowa State. Utah Utes fans are eager to see how the team will perform, especially with the early sportsbooks predicting a strong season with 8.5 wins. The team's next two opponents, Utah State and Iowa State, are projected to be at or near the bottom of their respective conferences, which could bode well for the Utah Utes' chances of picking up two early wins. The Utah Utes last played Utah State in 2024, winning 38-21, and will look to repeat that success this season. Utah State head coach Bronco Mendenhall has experience prepping against the Utah Utes and will look to use that to his advantage. The Aggies have a number of returners from last season, but will be without leading receiver Braden Pagen and offensive coordinator Kevin McGiven. Robert Anae has been brought in as the team's new offensive coordinator, and will look to provide some much-needed consistency. The Utah Utes will face off against Utah State on Thursday, September 19, at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City, before heading into conference play against Iowa State. With a number of key players and coaches in place, the Utah Utes are looking to make a strong run in the Big 12 conference this season. The team's quarterback situation will be an important factor, as will the performance of their interior offensive line. The Utah Utes have a number of talented players, and will look to use them to their advantage as they take on Utah State and Iowa State. The game against Utah State will be a key test for the Utah Utes, as they look to build momentum heading into conference play.