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SALT LAKE CITY -- In a chance to claim a spot as the eventual South Division winner of the Pac-12, the University of Utah rolled over and gave Arizona State all opportunities at claiming it for their own. With turnovers ultimately losing it for the Utes, the Sun Devils made their way to a 35-14 blowout win.
Quarterback: D+
Jon Hays is not ready to lead a Division I team to a bowl game at this time. Inexperience and poor decisions held back a player that has all the potential to be a decent quarterback, especially with Norm Chow as his offensive coordinator. Hays showed confidence and a capability to work under pressure, but struggled to make the pass. And with three interceptions topping the five turnovers by the Utes, the blame lays squarely on Hays' shoulders.
Running Backs/Full Backs: B
John White stepped up his game this week, but it wasn't enough to push out a win. After a poor showing last week against Washington, White managed 85 rushing yards on 17 carries, with his largest for a 30-yard touchdown to give the Utes an early seven points. Although White can make some plays, the Utes need more play makers in the run game to take the team to the next level.
Wide Receiver/Tight End: D+
This was one of the worst showings for Utah's receiving core. Although the ball was spread around to several players, there was nothing to brag about, especially with Reggie Dunn adding to the turnovers with a late-game fumble. And it wasn't completely Hays' fault either; when passes were thrown to his receivers, balls were dropped in key moments, stifling the Utes' offensive drives.
Offensive Line: D
The offensive line allowed Arizona State's defense to put too much pressure on Hays, making it difficult for plays to be made. In the second half, on almost every play, Hays was getting hit hard. This can't happen! Protecting your quarterback is the number one priority going into the game and Utah's offensive line couldn't make it happen.
Overall Offense: D+
There was little to no offensive production Saturday afternoon, enough said.
Defensive Line: A-
You can't fault Utah's defensive line for Saturday's loss. The defensive line put pressure on Brock Osweiler and made it difficult for Arizona State's offense to run the ball for most of the game. However, after being on the field for most of the game, it's no wonder the defensive line was worn down.
Linebackers: A
Trevor Reilly was all over Arizona State, with three tackles for a loss, totaling 29 yards. His ability to see the play develop made him one of the best defensive players of the day. If there is one positive aspect about Saturday's game, it's the defensive presence of Reilly. And with Chaz Walker and Brian Blechen adding to the defensive assault, Utah's linebackers were tough to get around.
Defensive Backs: C+
Arizona State's Brock Osweiler was able to exploit Utah's secondary, who gave the Sun Devils' receivers several yards to work with. The passing game came easy for Osweiler with so many players open for a quick seven or more yards.
Overall Defense: B
As mentioned earlier, Utah's defense is not to be blamed for Saturday's loss. The defense played really hard against a strong offense, but struggled to keep its energy because it spent most of the time on the field without rest, particularly in the second half during Utah's back-to-back-to-back one-play turnovers.
Special Teams: A-
Special teams worked hard to keep Arizona State down field, with deep kicks. One punt by Nick Marsh only went 27 yards, but Utah's defense was able to make up the difference. Additionally, a faked punt by Marsh for 15 yards is always a positive.
Overall Team: C-
If not for the team's defense, Utah's overall grade would be close to failing. The offense was nearly absent, with a defense that worked extremely hard to make something out of a poor situation.
*Email: jfurlong@ksl.com*Twitter: @JFurKSL
