Cam Rising and his surgically repaired knee have been the center of attention for the Utah football team lately. However, there are other factors that will play a role in the team’s upcoming game against Cal. To improve their overall record and conference standings, the Utes need to focus on several areas.
One major concern is the team’s struggling rushing game. Head coach Kyle Whittingham admitted that the rushing offense has been underwhelming and far from satisfactory. With injuries to key players like Ja’Quinden Jackson and Charlie Vincent, the running game has suffered. Whittingham emphasized the importance of achieving at least 5 yards per carry, which has not been happening recently.
Furthermore, the loss of running back Chris Curry to a season-ending injury has made matters worse for the Utes. It has been a constant struggle to keep the running backs healthy and maintain consistent production. The passing game’s inadequacies have also contributed to the underperformance of the running game. Without a threat in the passing attack, opposing defenses can easily focus on stopping the run.
The offensive line has been another area of concern for Whittingham. He believes that the line needs to be more physical and provide better protection for the quarterback. So far, the pass protection has been mediocre at best. The ongoing health issues within the offensive line make it challenging to see significant improvement in this area.
Not only is the offensive line struggling, but the tight ends group also needs to improve their blocking. Tight ends coach Freddie Whittingham stressed the importance of run-blocking, as it opens up opportunities in the passing game and overall offensive success. The tight ends need to work on their footwork, technique, effort, and finishing blocks to contribute more effectively.
Despite the offensive struggles, the team has shown unity and support for one another. Defensive players have expressed their willingness to do more to put the offense in better positions, instead of pointing fingers and blaming each other. Coach Whittingham is pleased with how the team has handled adversity and remained united.
Wide receiver Devaughn Vele acknowledged the team’s expectations for better play from everyone. He believes that the team’s past experiences with adversity, like the loss of Aaron Lowe and Ty Jordan, have prepared them to handle the current challenges. The offensive unit has been meeting separately to discuss ways to improve and not rely solely on the defense to carry the team.
In other news, linebackers coach Colton Swan praised the versatility of players Karene Reid and Lander Barton, while acknowledging the talent of other linebackers like Devin Lloyd and Nephi Sewell. He commended their ability to excel both in stopping the run and in pass coverage. Vele acknowledged the scrutiny on the offense and admitted that the receivers need to make more difficult catches to boost the confidence of quarterback Nate Johnson.
Overall, the Utah football team faces multiple challenges that extend beyond Cam Rising’s knee injury. To see improvements in their record and performance, the team needs to address issues in the rushing game, offensive line, tight ends’ blocking, and overall offensive efficiency. Unity and support among players remain strong, and the team is determined to overcome their current struggles.
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