Coach Bumphis Happy About Steps Forward Receivers Are Taking
Apr 14, 2022, 10:19 AM
Quarterback Cameron Rising #7 of the Utah Utes celebrates with Devaughn Vele #17 after scoring on a 11-yard rushing touchdown against the Arizona Wildcats during the first half of the NCAAF game at Arizona Stadium on November 13, 2021 in Tucson, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
(Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
SALT LAKE CITY- Before last Saturday’s scrimmage there was some concern about exactly what Utah’s depth was looking like at the wide receiver position. After Saturday’s scrimmage the mood surrounding the group appeared optimistic and like things are on the right track. This is great news for the Utes since one of their offensive goals is to be more explosive on the perimeter in 2022, but the receivers will need to continue making progress every day, not just one day.
Once I get comfortable, you can hang it up… pic.twitter.com/kXfsc3Smo4
— Ryan Peppins (@RPeppins) March 23, 2022
“They stepped up and made some plays,” receivers coach Chad Bumphis said. “Early on, just inconsistent. You gotta be the same person every day. Can’t show up on scrimmage days. You’ve got to do that through out the week because if you don’t do it in practice I will never know it come the game. You won’t get the opportunity.”
Devaughn Vele
One guy the Utes are hoping will take another big step forward is Devaughn Vele. At 6’5″ he is a problem to cover and has some decent wheels as well. In 2021 he began showing why there was so much talk around the former walk-on, but once again, consistency will be key in 2022.
“He’s very confident,” Bumphis said. “He’s seen himself make some plays and he’s comfortable. I’m not moving around so much. It’s so easy for guys like him- he knows all three receiver spots. I’ve put him at X and watched him get comfortable making plays and he’s been more consistent.”
Ryan Peppins
The receivers have some young young blood they are excited about as well. Ryan Peppins comes to the Utes as the Alabama Gatorade Player of the Year and Bumphis likes his potential.
“Ryan is twitchy,” Bumphis said. “Very, very quick. He has great ball skills, really great football grit. Again, it’s just getting him up to speed. He should still be in high school right now, it’s a different offense. He’s just got to learn our terminology but ability-wise there is no question what he can do.”
