Utah Utes football: Utes wrap up first full scrimmage


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SALT LAKE CITY — Utah's first fall scrimmage wasn't perfect, but it wasn't that bad, either.

The Utes drew fairly positive reviews from the coaching staff after Thursday's situational gathering at Rice-Eccles Stadium.

"I thought it went well — one of our cleaner, more efficient first scrimmages of fall camp that we've had in recent years," said Utah coach Kyle Whittingham. "The offense did some nice things. It was great to have Jordan (Wynn) back in the lineup."

Wynn completed 9-of-17 passes for 152 yards and a touchdown in his first extensive live work since having shoulder surgery in December.

"I thought it went pretty well if I don't fumble two or three times, maybe complete a few more passes," Wynn said. "Other than that it was a pretty darn good scrimmage."

Aside from a few exchange problems as Wynn adjusts to being under center more, offensive coordinator Norm Chow was fairly pleased with what he saw. Chow said the attitude and effort were terrific.

The offense's first two drives under Wynn were sustained and consisted of 16 and 13 plays, respectively.

Wynn's touchdown pass in the scrimmage was a 26-yard strike to Luke Matthews. The offense's other scores included a 30-yard field goal by Coleman Petersen, an 8-yard touchdown run by Tauni Vakapuna, and a 29-yard kick by Nick Marsh.

The defense also put points on the board, returning two interceptions by backup quarterback Jon Hays for touchdowns. Nate Fakahafua took one back 23 yards and Trevor Reilly later added a 43-yard interception return for a score.

Statistically, John White IV was the leading rusher with 47 yards on 12 carries. Vakapuna finished with 42 on seven rushes. Thretton Palamo and Harvey Langi had just 21 and 10 yards, respectively. Palamo had eight carries and Langi ran it seven times.

DeVonte Christopher was the top receiver with four catches for 102 yards. Matthews was the only other receiver with more than one reception. He had two for 34 yards.

On defense, Whittingham said cornerback Mo Lee was a standout and could challenge for a starting job. He picked off a pass by Hays.

Star Lotulelei and Nai Fouta recovered fumbles, while Lei Talamaivao registered two sacks. Nine Utes had tackles-for-loss, six broke up passes and four were credited with sacks.

The Utes resume practice Friday with the second two-a-day of camp.

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