Isaac Wilson Finds Caleb Lohner As Utah Football Regains Lead Over Aggies
Sep 14, 2024, 4:30 PM
Utah Utes quarterback Isaac Wilson (11) warms up against USU in Logan on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2024. (Photo courtesy of Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News)
(Photo courtesy of Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News)
LOGAN, Utah – Utah Football quarterback Isaac Wilson had a slow start but eventually found his footing and helped the Utes take the lead before halftime.
With less than three minutes on the clock, the Utes’ offense only took about 90 seconds to go 51 yards for six.
MISMATCH 💪 @caleblohner
📺: @CBSSportsNet #GoUtes pic.twitter.com/2tsnWjNpXW
— Utah Football (@Utah_Football) September 14, 2024
The drive started with a 20-yard completion to Dorian Singer. The senior receiver was a difference-maker in the first half, pulling down five receptions for 66 yards.
Wilson and Singer connected again on the following play, this time for nine yards.
After an incomplete pass and an 11-yard run from Mike Mitchell to move the sticks, Wilson threw a jump ball to Caleb Lohner on the left side.
Finished the first half strong.
Utah: 17
Utah State: 14📺: @CBSSportsNet #GoUtes pic.twitter.com/UyLS2yhKDK
— Utah Football (@Utah_Football) September 14, 2024
The TD gave Utah its first lead since 3-0 in the first quarter.
After Bryson Barnes led two scoring drives, Wilson responded by doing the exact same thing.
RELATED: Isaac Wilson Hits Money Parks For A Touchdown As Utah Keeps It Close In Logan
Three Game Day Thoughts From Utes Insider Steve Bartle
1. Bryson Barnes vs Utah Defense
If you listened to the Utah Blockcast with Keanu Tanuvasa this week, you know there is respect for the Utah State signal caller but Utah has a job to do.
And the job of the defense is to make things rather difficult for the Utah State quarterback.
Given Barnes’ time in the program, there is a deeper understanding of how things work at Utah. However, Utah also knows what Barnes does well and where he may struggle.
So, how Morgan Scalley approaches this game in terms of scheme and playcalling will be interesting. Don’t be surprised to see a much more aggressive game plan.
2. Utah aiming for a big day on the ground
There is a lot of excitement around Isaac Wilson and the opportunity to get an extended look at him. But today’s offensive attack will very likely be tilted toward a heavy rushing attack.
Kyle Whittingham and his staff will want to shorten this game as much as possible. The best way to do that will be through controlling the ball with the run game.
Micah Bernard finished last week 2 yards shy of 120 rushing yards. He and Mike Mitchell will be counted on to lead the way this week.
For Utah to have the sort of day they want, they will need a big day from the ground game.
It’s all smiles with the Utah QBs. pic.twitter.com/d8FS0EZnN4
— Steve Bartle (@BartleKSLsports) September 14, 2024
3. Success for Isaac Wilson
The biggest storyline in this game is the absence of veteran quarterback Cam Rising. Given what’s on the line for Utah this season, Rising is a vital piece to it all. He isn’t available for Utah today, which puts the spotlight on true freshman Isaac Wilson.
Wilson doesn’t need to be the hero. He doesn’t need to throw for 200-300 yards. He simply needs to execute the offense and take advantage of opportunities when they are there.
There will be easy looks for him. He will have chances to throw the ball down the field. It’s all up to him to take command, play with confidence, and execute to the best of his abilities.
