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BOULDER, Colorado — Utah got another road win to finish the season with an 8-4 record, beating Colorado 38-34.
The win was not easy to come by for Utah, but a fourth quarter pick 6 by Utah's Dominique Hatfield all but sealed the win for the Utes. The win gives Utah a winning record in conference play for the first time since joining the Pac-12.
The following is a grading of Utah's win over Colorado. Tell me what you think in the comment boards or on Twitter.
To some a grade of an A- is too high, but Utah's offense managed to get the ball moving in a game where points really mattered. The offense arguably did the best its done the entire season.
Based on previous week's of play, many expected Utah to continue its conservative play-calling and run the ball — a valid scheme based on Colorado's last place ranking in the Pac-12 in its run defense. However, Dave Christensen opened up the playbook and allowed for more of a passing game mixed in with the run game.
Quarterback Travis Wilson had his struggles throughout the game, but finished completing 25-of-37 passes for 311 yards and three touchdowns. Wilson completed several deep passes, including a 34-yard touchdown pass to Kaelin Clay. Clay finished with 88 yards and two touchdown on 10 catches. Westlee Tonga finished with 77 yards and one touchdown on three catches.
Utah's defense was not up to its usual standard of holding teams for much of the game, with several blown assignments and issues with tackling.
The defensive side of the ball has been plagued with injuries, losing several key players, but the defense gave up 317 receiving yards and 116 rushing yards.
Colorado's Christian Powell finished the game with 75 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 10 carries. Receivers Nelson Spruce and Tyle McCulloch combined for 192 receiving yards and one touchdown.
Although Utah gave up a lot to Colorado, the Utes were able to hold the Buffaloes at the end to secure the win.
Utah gave up 129 yards in kick returns, which is unlike their normal kick return coverage. While it ultimately didn't hurt Utah, it was not a favorable aspect of the special teams.
A rare missed PAT by Andy Phillips added to some of the issues with special teams. While the Phillips miss is not a major flaw in his game, it was a vital missed point in a game where points were greatly needed.
Despite the struggles on special teams, punter Tom Hackett had an incredible day. Hackett averaged 55.8 yards per punt on four punts, with his longest being a 70-yard punt. There's things about at least two punts that he likely wasn't too happy about (touchbacks), he continues to showcase his talent kicking the ball.
Utah still has issues playing a complete game in all facets, but a win is a win. It's encouraging that the offense was able to score some points, but the defensive and special teams issues is a frustrating aspect of the game.
