Cam Rising’s Most Memorable Performances As Utah Football’s Starting Quarterback
May 8, 2025, 2:36 PM
Cam Rising #7 of the Utah Utes rushes for a touchdown against the Ohio State Buckeyes during the second quarter in the Rose Bowl Game at Rose Bowl Stadium on January 01, 2022 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
(Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
SALT LAKE CITY – Cam Rising’s tenure as Utah football’s starting quarterback was marked by a dynamic blend of triumph, resilience, and adversity.
He led the Utes to consecutive Pac-12 championships and profoundly impacted Utah football. Unfortunately, Rising’s injuries mounted, but his legacy is among the greats.
𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮, @crising7 🙌#GoUtes pic.twitter.com/BN0aCNqbAG
— Utah Football (@Utah_Football) May 7, 2025
Cam Rising’s Most Memorable Performances
2022 Home Game vs. USC: Facing a formidable opponent in a crucial Pac-12 clash, Rising led Utah to a thrilling 43-42 victory. Lincoln Riley, Caleb Williams, and the Trojans were the hot topic of the Pac-12. They even started the game quite well, yet Rising didn’t flinch. As the Utes settled into the game, Rising raised his level of play. He ended the game throwing for 415 yards and two touchdowns while rushing for three additional scores. His game-winning two-point conversion run in the final minute became an iconic moment in Utah football history.
2021 vs. USC: In a defining game, Rising showcased his abilities by throwing for 306 yards and three touchdowns, while also adding a rushing score, to lead Utah to a resounding 42-26 victory. This performance cemented his status as the team’s undisputed leader, not just because of the production, but also because of the tragedy the team experienced two weeks earlier. After losing Ty Jordan nine months earlier, Utah lost another teammate, Aaron Lowe, following the win over Washington State.
2022 Conference Championship Game vs USC: After defeating them in Salt Lake City two months earlier, the Utes and Trojans faced off again, this time for the conference championship title. Rising had been struggling with a knee injury that he suffered in the home game against USC. Yet, he led the Utes to another fantastic game. He threw for 310 yards and three touchdowns, spreading the wealth to six different receivers. Yet, his most memorable moment from the game came in the post-game interview.
2021 Second Half vs. San Diego State: With Charlie Brewer at the helm, Utah fell behind early and looked completely out of sorts. After a Brewer interception and another failed drive, Rising entered the game in the 3rd quarter. The difference his presence provided was felt almost instantly, as he orchestrated a dramatic comeback from a 24-10 deficit. He passed for 153 yards and three touchdowns within just over a quarter of play. Although the Utes ultimately fell in triple overtime, Rising’s inspiring effort marked the beginning of his leadership era.
2022 Rose Bowl vs. Ohio State: In one of his most exciting performances, Rising threw for 214 yards and two touchdowns while also rushing for 92 yards and a touchdown, including a memorable 62-yard touchdown run on 4th and 1. Rising and the Utes traded blows with the Buckeyes until he suffered a concussion in the fourth quarter, forcing an early exit from the game.
Cam Rising’s Legacy
Rising’s journey with the Utes began in 2019 after transferring from the University of Texas. It was a significant addition for the program, which was looking for a signal caller to take the baton from Tyler Huntley. Though it took some time, Rising eventually took control of the offense and led the program to greater heights.
Rising’s leadership, poise under pressure, and infectious competitive spirit established him as the team’s heart and soul. His breakout moment arrived in 2021 when he assumed the starting quarterback role, propelling the Utes to their first-ever Pac-12 Championship and a Rose Bowl appearance.
In over 30 games, Rising amassed 6,127 passing yards, 53 touchdowns, and 986 rushing yards with 12 scores. More than his impressive statistics, Rising’s leadership helped elevate Utah from a competitive team to a perennial contender in the Pac-12. He won back-to-back conference championships.
Unfortunately, the injuries mounted and ultimately forced him into retirement. Yet, that changes nothing about what he accomplished in a Utah uniform. He belongs in the conversation for the greatest Utah quarterback in program history. His impact is among the program’s most significant figures, player or coach.
Cam Rising Transitioning To Life After Football
Following his medical retirement, Rising returned to his roots by accepting a role as the offensive coordinator at his high school alma mater, Newbury Park in California. His continued dedication to football exemplifies his commitment to shaping future athletes, ensuring his passion for the game endures beyond his playing days.
Cam Rising’s story epitomizes resilience, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Though injuries cut his collegiate career short, his legacy remains a powerful inspiration, guiding future generations of Utes to rise to any challenge.
Cam Rising issues statement on medical retirement
Despite returning from the hand injury against Arizona State, only to suffer another lower-leg injury on the third play, the hand issue has remained a problem.
In a statement issued Wednesday afternoon, Rising revealed that he has been advised to medically retire from football.
“Bad Moon Out.
Due to a hand injury I suffered during the Baylor game, I’ve been advised by two orthopedic physicians that I will never be able to return to playing football. I’ll be obtaining a 3rd medical opinion and will undergo the recommended surgery. I will continue to rehab and do all I can to get healthy. In the meantime, I will unfortunately be forced to medically retire from the game I love.
My why has always been my family. I have always thought of my teammates as my brothers and always will. Thank you guys for always pushing me to improve and just making this game enjoyable. Thank you to the coaches for guiding me in the right direction to become a better man and football player. Coach Ludwig, thank you for turning me into a football nerd and showing me the correct way to respect the game. Lastly, thank you to all the fans and everyone that supported me throughout my career. You all made the moments special.”
