Utes @ UCLA

Football
1

Here we go!

Lest anyone thinks we’re going to roll the Bruins, here are some external predictions:

Experts predict Utah vs. UCLA college football Week 1 game

I would say UCLA with a 52% chance of winning is the right level of focus and motivation we need to bring.

We need to be on point to win this one. With our O-line + Beck + Dampier & the other playmakers, I think we’ll get the W, but nothing is a given. The D needs to be their regular selves, and ST needs to be solid.

Execution and winning the turnover battle.

2

I have no clue what to expect. I could see Utah winning by three TDs or losing by three TDs or anything in between. I am eager to see the offense.

6 Likes
3

Big question is can the newcomers who played very well in the MWC make the adjustment to the higher level.

2 Likes
4

I’m in the same boat, I have zero clue how our Utes will do. I hope that the team gets the win, and comes home healthy.

2 Likes
5

There is no way to figure this out due to the revolving door of the transfer portal. I just want them to win…by getting 8 sacks, 2 fumbles, a pick 6, and more points than the bRuins. Beating the spread would be a bonus.

3 Likes
6

Vegas has the Utes a 6 point favorite.

3 Likes
7

That’s the “magic” of this new era where 50% of your college football team changes every year. The turnover of personnel is fun if you’re watching reality TV, not so much when it’s your alma mater.

5 Likes
8

The Vegas line hasn’t moved much. Not sure how they do their analysis, or if the line is simply where the money is lining up, but a few thoughts:

For UCLA

  • B1G talent, even if picked 14th.
  • Nico the Great - things didn’t work out in Knoxville, but he’s a talent
  • Returning DC
  • New OC who is generally well regarded

For Utah

  • New OC with his QB, a WR and a RB
  • Very well respected, veteran OL
  • Utah’s D. The only real questions are who will be the 2s at DT, otherwise it looks like a typical Utah defense.
  • 50% of the roster are new players, veterans report a good vibe in camp

I think Utah’s offense has a slight advantage in being together longer, with Beck & Dampier being a package deal, and all reports are Dampier is a leader. Also reports that its back and forth in camp between offense and defense.

Stray observation from UCLA that DeSean Foster is a “work in progress”. No idea how accurate that is, or how much it means.

7 Likes
9

I just want to get out of there with a win. Would love to see style points, but at the end of the day I just want to win.

6 Likes
10

Pretty original coverage by the Daily Utah Chronicle:

How UCLA Feels About Its Week One Matchup vs. Utah

5 Likes
11

Interesting read. Wonder if the Chrony is still printed or just online. Not real important to know.

2 Likes
12

I am so excited for this game.
I think that this game will set the tone for the season, Dampier’s time to shine.

3 Likes
13

Freddie says a lot without revealing much, low BS ratio:

1 Like
14

the female in the photo looks rather enthused by the situation unfolding before her

2 Likes
15

That’s just sick and wrong…and funny.

2 Likes
16

That is Andrea Urban from Fox 13 Utah. She and her Fox 13 Utah sport peers lean towards the team down south, hence her enthusiasm. Her attitude must have been “Ugh…I have to go listen to Fred Whittingham…Blah, why can’t I be in Provo right now interviewing Sitake”.

5 Likes
17

If you didn’t already like Devon Dampier…

6 Likes
18

Anyone remember detective Lou Dripkin? (likely spelled that wrong)

3 Likes
19

I haven’t got that impression in all the times I have talked to her. She is pretty balanced about the local college teams. She is not from Utah so has no pre-existing allegiances other than Michigan State.

3 Likes
20

As far as I can tell it is no longer printed. At least not on a regular basis.

2 Likes