After Week 4's 56-3 demolition of San Jose State, many wondered what to expect from Utah in Week 6. With two weeks to prepare, would they dominate a Big 12 opponent? Would the defense stop an offense led by a veteran QB, who makes plays with his arm and his feet?
The Utes answered with an emphatic “yes” to both questions. They showed no signs of rust offensively, gaining 593 yards, and averaging 7.5 yards per play. Utah finally opened up the playbook, completing passes to eight different receivers. Most impressively, the Utes dominated the line of scrimmage, averaging 5.6 yards per carry, and not allowing a sack.
The defense played even better than the offense. While Utah only produced one sack, they pressured QB Austen Arnaud all night long, limiting him to only 13 for 31 passing and forcing two interceptions. Iowa State was unable to sustain long drives against the regulars, only giving up two short touchdown drives off Ute turnovers.
After this performance, the Utes have shown that they can beat anyone. Since the Pittsburgh game, no one has even come close stopping the Utah offense, even when top offensive weapons missed time with injury. The Utah defense continues to dominate week after week, ranking in the Top 10 in total defense.
While the Utes have played well thus far, they must continue to improve, and reduce the number of turnovers. Starting at the end of October, Utah faces #23 Air Force, #4 TCU, and Notre Dame in consecutive weeks. The Utes need to win all three games to return to the BCS.
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