Takeaways From Kyle Whittingham’s Utah Vs Arizona Week Press Conference
Sep 23, 2024, 3:29 PM | Updated: Oct 7, 2024, 1:02 pm
SALT LAKE CITY – On Monday, Utah Football head coach Kyle Whittingham addressed members of the media for the Arizona-week press conference of 2024.
We have a kick time for Utah versus Arizona 🌙https://t.co/F6gqZsYtI9
— KSL Sports (@kslsports) September 16, 2024
Coming off of a 22-19 win over one of the top contenders in the Big 12, there are a lot of positives to build on. However, there are plenty of questions surrounding the star quarterback and QB situation in general.
The Utes begin their preparations for this weekend’s matchup against Arizona. To start the week, Whittingham met with the media as he always does. After the 15-minute presser, here are five key takeaways from Utah’s head coach press conference.
One – Whittingham’s comments on Cam Rising’s injury situation
On when the decision was made – “I can say that Isaac and Cam was a right-before-kickoff decision. It was not trying to be any sort of gamesmanship or any of that stuff. It was let’s see how Cam functions in pre-game and then we decide who gives us the best chance to win. That decision was made, literally 20-25 minutes pre-game.”
On what was the deciding factor – “Not enough velocity on the ball. Plain and simple, just not able to spin it like he needs to.”
On how they handled the two QBs in practice – “We had structured things in practice during the week where there was a possibility that Isaac would be the starter. We gave him the one-reps a couple of days. Gave Cam time off later in the week to see if we could get him feeling better and then test him pre-game. So we followed the plan, nothing that surprised us, and made the decision we made, went with it.
On whether they’ll manage it the same this week – “We’ll see, hopefully, he’s further ahead and if so, maybe that clears the picture up sooner. Can’t give you a better answer until we see him throw.
On Isaac’s play potentially influencing, providing more leeway – “First of all, it’s great to see Isaac’s progression, but the bottom line is whichever quarterback gives us the best chance to win is the one that’ll play.”
Two – Isaac Wilson’s progression has been significant
After going into a hostile environment and helping the team to victory, Coach Whittingham talked through what he’s liked most about Wilson’s progression through four games.
The true freshman has shown improved confidence and command of the offense. Whittingham sees the “IT FACTOR” in him and mentioned the players sense that in him as well.
“They love playing for him. They’ve got a ton of confidence in him. He’s fearless.”
That confidence that other players have in him is significant. Going back to the injury to Cam Rising, the deflated feel around the team and within the stadium was noticeable. To have that confidence from others will be very beneficial to Wilson moving forward.
Whittingham also mentioned that Wilson has the full playbook open to him now. There is very little difference in the playbook now between Wilson and Rising. It wasn’t exactly the same but the game plan on Saturday did not change a whole lot.
Big 12 Players of the Week 🏈
OPOTW: Utah RB Micah Bernard (@ctb_mb)
Newcomer: QB Isaac Wilson (@Isaac_kawika)
Special Teams: #BYU WR/PR @ParkerKingston #GoUtes #GoCougs https://t.co/OUjGZMYpp1— KSL Sports (@kslsports) September 23, 2024
Three – Dorian Singer’s play is exactly what Utah wanted
“What you saw Saturday was more indicative of how we should be utilizing him, week in and week out.”
Dorian Singer had his most productive game of the season against Oklahoma State. He finished the game with 7 receptions for 95 yards, which included 49 yards after the catch, 25 yards after contact and 4 broken tackles.
“I’ve liked everything about Dorian’s play,” he said. “He’s a complete player, he’ll block for you- he’s some big blocks for us in the run game. He’s tough. His hands are incredible, I mean, you saw some of the catches he made. He’s a big-time talent.”
Considering the matchup this weekend against his former team, perhaps we see another best effort from Singer this weekend.
Utah took control of this one early, here are some things that stood out after review of the game. #GoUtes https://t.co/uDKIm7RSmj
— Steve Bartle (@BartleKSLsports) September 23, 2024
Four – Looking for a better game this year, than last against Arizona
There is big respect for Arizona’s Noah Fifita and Tetiroa McMillan. He noted that McMillan is just the sort of talent that is simply going to get his but you’ve got to do your best to limit that as much as possible.
“Fifita is a terrific quarterback, had a great game against us last year. The McMillan kid is a terrific receiver, leading in the conference in yards per game, third or fourth in receptions.”
Whittingham also shared that they haven’t forgotten about last year’s game. Particularly with how poorly they played. There is certainly added motivation for this one.
“They got us pretty good last year, so we hope to play much better this year than we did last year.”
Five – Excitement for Utah’s night game this weekend
“Arizona coming into our place this weekend. Night game, we all know Rice Eccles is a real tough environment for opponents, especially at night.”
Fans have been begging for night games. They got their wish last week when the game time was announced for this weekend’s contest.
With so many great games over the years, there is just something special about Rice Eccles Stadium at night.
“It is kinda magical,” he said at last week’s press conference. “It just seems to be electric at night.”
Utah Football Schedule
Utah is back at home this Saturday for a showdown with the Arizona Wildcats You can find Utah football’s conference schedule here.
