Grading Utah in blowout win over Fresno State


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SALT LAKE CITY — With its second win of the season, the University of Utah looked like a much-improved team from last season in rolling Fresno State, 59-27, Saturday.

The victory was a nice step in the team’s goal toward getting back to a bowl game in a difficult season.

The following is a game-day grading of the offense, defense, special teams and team as a whole.

Do you agree with the grades? Tell us how you’d grade the team in our comment boards.

Offense: A- -----------

The offense was firing on all cylinders from the very start of the game, starting with a 41-yard catch to Dres Anderson from Travis Wilson on Utah’s first play of the game. From the offensive line to the receivers, Utah was as effective as we’ve ever seen Utah play. Utah went up 17-0 in the first quarter and looked primed for a great night.

Wilson went 11-of-20 for 181 yards and five touchdowns, which is the first time a Utah quarterback has thrown for five touchdowns since Brian Johnson did it against San Diego State in 2008. Wilson added 37 yards in the run game on 11 carries. Backup quarterback Kendal Thompson, too, had a great night going 4-of-7 for 87 yards and a touchdown, but added 71 yards rushing and a touchdown.

As expected, Anderson and Kenneth Scott continue to dominate in the receiving game. Both receivers had two touchdowns. Anderson lead the team in receiving with 84 yards on three catches with Scott just behind him with 77 yards on six catches.

Utah was balanced in its run and pass game, with 268 yards through the air and 258 yards on the ground.

Defense: B+

The defense was much-improved from its play last week against Idaho State. Utah forced the Bulldogs into six consecutive three-and-outs before allowing a first down. Utah stacked the box against Fresno State and made it extremely difficult for the Bulldogs to get anything off. Quarterback Brandon Connette improved Fresno State’s ability to move the ball, but Utah’s defense quickly adjusted and stuffed the Bulldogs.

Utah had seven sacks on both quarterbacks and managed 13 tackles for a loss of yardage. There were five defenders — Hunter Dimick, Filipo Mokofisi, Clint Shepard, Jason Fanaika and Wallace Gonzales — were contributed to the team’s sack total. Additionally, Utah’s defense — Nate Orchard — was able to get a takeaway, setting up the Utes for a touchdown.

Although the defense looked impressive against Fresno State, late in the game the second-string allowed more than Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham wanted from the defense. Had this grade been based on just the first team’s success it would be much higher. Still, it was a great day for the defense.

Special Teams: A-

Special teams continues to be great in its play, particularly from punter Tom Hackett. Hackett’s ability to place the ball wherever he wants it is impressive and a much-needed asset in a battle for field position. Hackett had a 65-yard punt, but averaged 55.4 yards on five punts. He was able to down the ball inside the 10-yard line twice: once on the 4-yard line and then a second on the 9-yard line.

Andy Phillips had a quiet night, but that’s likely what Utah is hoping to see. There’s no doubt Phillips can do what Utah wants, but it’s a positive that Utah hasn’t had to settle for too many field goals this season. Phillips’ only miscue was a kick that went out of bounds — a play that he was more upset about that the coaches likely worried about.

Because of Kaelin Clay’s performance last week against Idaho State, the Bulldogs didn’t give Utah that many opportunities to make plays on the punt or kickoff returns.

Overall Team: A-

Utah played a very balanced game that is a good sign as the schedule dramatically intensifies in two weeks as Utah travels to take on Michigan. The offense appears to be able to effectively run and pass the ball. With all aspects of the team looking good so far, Utah should be happy with its potential as the season progresses.

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Josh Furlong

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