Utah Utes

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Utah Utes is 0-0 on the season, 0-0 against the spread, and holds a power rating of +17.4. Utah Utes enters the season with a power rating of +17.4, placing them above average relative to the FBS midpoint. The Utah Utes host Idaho next in Week 1. In 2025, Utah Utes went 10-2 overall, 8-3-1 against the spread, and 8-4 on totals.

Conference: Big 12 Conference
Stadium: Rice-Eccles Stadium, Salt Lake City, UT
Power Rating: +17.4
HFA Rating:3.0 pts
Record: 0-0
ATS: 0-0
O/U: 0-0

2026 Schedule & Results

In Week 0 of 2026 the Utah Utes Power Rating of +17.4 is 17.2 points above the FBS average according to Blue Chip Analytics. Utah Utes have logged 0 miles of travel so far, out of a season total of 8,629 miles, ranking 45th heaviest in the FBS.

2026 Season Travel Profile

8,629 miles - ranked 45th heaviest in FBS (138 teams)
Week Opponent Distance Cumulative
Week 0Bye
Week 1IdahoHome0 mi
Week 2ArkansasHome0 mi
Week 3Utah StateHome0 mi
Week 4Iowa State949 mi1,897 mi
Week 5Bye
Week 6KansasHome1,897 mi
Week 7Colorado351 mi2,599 mi
Week 8HoustonHome2,599 mi
Week 9Cincinnati1,450 mi5,499 mi
Week 10BYUHome5,499 mi
Week 11Arizona590 mi6,680 mi
Week 12TCU975 mi8,629 mi
Week 13West VirginiaHome8,629 mi
Week 14Bye
Week 15Bye
Week 16Bye

Utah Utes Season Outlook

New Era Under Morgan Scalley

Utah enters a new chapter with Morgan Scalley as head coach after Kyle Whittingham's departure. Scalley, a longtime defensive coordinator, brings continuity but also a new staff and 18 new faces. The transition has been smooth so far, with the team embracing Scalley's vision while maintaining the physical identity that has defined Utah football. The Utes are still finding their footing, but the foundation is solid.

Offensive Line Rebuild is the Key

The offense returns dynamic quarterbacks Devon Dampier and Byrd Ficklin in a tag-team role, along with leading rusher Wayshawn Parker and portal additions Braden Pegan and Kyri Shoels at receiver. However, the offensive line replaces all five starters, making it the biggest question mark. The unit's performance will determine whether the run game remains strong and the passing attack can improve. Early signs show promise, but consistency is still being developed.

Defensive Line Reinforcements Address Run Defense

After being gashed on the ground last season, Utah added size and physicality to the defensive line via the portal, including Jireh Moe from San Jose State and Lucas Samsula from Wyoming. The defense overall is veteran and versatile, allowing new defensive coordinator Colton Swan to be more aggressive. The run defense has shown improvement, but it remains a work in progress as the unit gels.

Special Teams Provide Stability

Placekicker Dillon Curtis and punter Orion Phillips return, giving Utah reliable and experienced specialists. Mana Carvalho adds a dynamic element in the return game after a year of experience. Special teams have been a steadying force, contributing to field position and scoring opportunities without major miscues.

Big 12 Title Contention Hinges on Consistency

Utah has the talent and coaching to compete for a Big 12 championship, but the path depends on the offensive line's development and the defense's ability to stop the run consistently. The quarterback duo provides flexibility, and the receiving corps is deeper than last year. If the line holds up and the defense continues to improve, Utah can challenge for the top of the conference. The rest of the season will reveal whether this team can put it all together.

Sources

Schedule & Results

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Utah Utes's against-the-spread record in 2026?

Utah Utes is 0-0 against the spread in the 2026 season.

What is Utah Utes's Blue Chip Analytics power rating?

Utah Utes holds a Blue Chip Analytics power rating of +17.4, representing their expected point margin against an average FBS team on a neutral field.

What is Utah Utes's home field advantage rating?

Utah Utes's home field advantage rating is 3.0 points, the venue adjustment Blue Chip Analytics applies for games at their home stadium.

How many miles does Utah Utes travel in 2026?

Utah Utes travels 8,629 miles in the 2026 season, ranking 45th heaviest in the FBS.

How does Blue Chip Analytics calculate cumulative travel distance?

Cumulative travel distance counts both the outbound and return journey for every away game. For example, if a team travels 374 miles to play an away game, Blue Chip Analytics counts 748 miles (374 miles there, 374 miles back) toward the cumulative total. Home games and bye weeks add zero miles. The per-week Distance column shows the one-way distance only, as the return trip happens after the game is played.

Utah Utes: 0-0 overall, 0-0 ATS, power rating +17.4.