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SALT LAKE CITY — Utah's quarterback Travis Wilson has won every in-state rival game as a starter. Overall, he's completed 67.47 percent of his passes, thrown for eight touchdowns and rushed for 140 yards and two scores.
Here's a breakdown of his undefeated record as a starter against in-state teams.
2012
As a true freshman, Wilson played in all 12 games and started in the last seven. His first action came against the Aggies in Week 2 after Jordan Wynn left the game with an injury. Wilson attempted one pass, completing it for 28 yards, and rushed for three yards. Utah lost the game 27-20 in overtime.
The Utes played against then 25th-ranked BYU in Week 3. Wilson didn't play much in the game and statistically it was his worst game of the season. He didn't throw any passes and rushed for an average -0.5 yards. But Utah went on to defeat the Cougars 24-21. It was the first time the program beat a Top 25 team in two years (15th-ranked Pittsburgh in 2010).
2013
Wilson took the reins of the team his sophomore season. It was a decision the program would eventually learn was a good one. The Utes played their northern neighbors in a thrilling season-opening game. The new starting signal caller completed 60.71 percent of his passes, throwing for 302 yards and two touchdowns.
"We had great efficiency in the passing game," head coach Kyle Whittingham said after the matchup.
What really set Utah apart from the Aggies that night was its special teams unit. Kicker Andy Phillips' onside kick led to a 2-yard touchdown to help seal a 30-26 win. Nevertheless, it put Wilson 1-0 as a starter versus Utah teams.
In September, Wilson led the Utes to a 70-7 defeat over Weber State, marking the second time in program history Utah accumulated 100 points in its first two games. Thirty-five points came in the second quarter. According to the school, it broke the previous record of 31 points (68-27 win at Iowa in 2010). Wilson was 14-of-19 and threw three touchdowns and ran for two — one being 51 yards long, his longest rush against a Utah team. His longest pass against an in-state team also came against the Wildcats. It led to an 80-yard touchdown by Sean Fitzgerald.
Wilson and Company also headed to Provo in Week 4, hoping to win their fourth-straight game against BYU. The Utes headed to the locker room winning 13-0 at half. BYU's first points — a field goal — came with 5:39 left in the third quarter while Utah went scoreless. Wilson rallied his team early in the fourth quarter, putting another seven points on the board. The Cougars were unable to make a comeback, giving Utah a 20-13 victory. Wilson's night consisted of 273 passing yards and a 68.57 percent completion rate.
"I don't think I've ever had a win like this," Wilson said after the game. "It truly feels amazing."
2015
Wilson can continue to feel bliss as the Utes gear up to play Utah State Friday. Utah didn't play any in-state rivals in 2014, so Friday's game feels like a revival. Throughout fall camp, Whittingham hoped Wilson would pick up where he left off last season. The wish came true as he completed 24-of-33 passes for 208 yards in last week's season-opener 24-17 win against Michigan.
Wilson has scored four passing touchdowns, averaging 68.6 percent of his passes, and four scores in his last three starts — all of which were wins. The senior's recent success stems from confidence. He said he feels comfortable on the field because he trusts those around him.
"He has complete grasp of the offense. He's playing with a lot of poise," added Whittingham.
Wilson needs to keep his composure to continue his undefeated in-state record. His remedy for getting a victory: getting more passes in the end zone, scoring more in the end zone and capitalizing on the defense's turnovers.
It's something he's capable of, especially if he plays like last week.
Holli Joyce is a University of Utah communications graduate and enjoys keeping up with the Utah Utes, Utah Jazz and Seattle Seahawks. In addition to covering Utah football for KSL.com, she is a Seahawks Correspondent for 12thManRising.com. Follow her on Twitter @Holli_Alexa.
