With Week 1 for Utah’s three FBS programs in the rearview mirror, where might we see the Cougars, Utes, and Aggies come bowl season?
No. 12 Utah
When the game kicked off and we knew with 100 percent certainty that quarterback Cam Rising wouldn’t play, many questioned if the Utes could still get a win in their season opener.
They answered that question on the first drive, with backup quarterback Bryson Barnes tossing a 70-yard touchdown to Money Parks for the early advantage.
Utah managed the game from that point on, grinding out a 24-11 victory to avenge last season’s opening loss to Florida.
While the play calling from offensive coordinator Andy Ludwig was a highlight, the Utes’ defense was also stout, allowing a mere 13 yards rushing to the Gators.
The question heading into Week 2 is still around the availability of Cam Rising as Utah travels to Baylor to face a future Big 12 opponent. But after the way the Bears played in a Week 1 loss to Texas State, the Utes may even think about resting Rising for the next two games before Pac-12 play begins.
Projection: Holiday Bowl
Opponent: Pitt
Date: Wednesday, December 27
Location: Petco Park – San Diego, CA
Time and channel: 6 p.m. MT, FOX
BYU
Although the scoreline wasn’t one many predicted, BYU still began the 2023 season 1-0 with a 14-0 victory over FBS newcomer Sam Houston.
While the offense faltered in the game, the defense played quite well in its debut under new defensive coordinator – and former Weber State coach – Jay Hill.
The Cougars’ defense posted their first shutout of an FBS opponent since 2012 – a 47-0 win over Hawaii – while holding the Bearkats to just 185 yards of offense (147 passing, 38 rushing). BYU also forced three turnovers in the victory.
The offense is a big question mark for BYU moving forward, as transfer quarterback Kedon Slovis struggled in his Cougar debut.
BYU now turns its attention to in-state FCS opponent Southern Utah. The Cougars should win the game but shouldn’t overlook the Thunderbirds, who narrowly fell 24-21 to Arizona State in Week 1.
Projection: Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl
Opponent: Arizona
Date: Saturday, December 16
Location: Independence Stadium – Shreveport, LA
Time and channel: 7:15 p.m. MT, ESPN
Utah State
While the Aggies did lose their season opener 24-14 to then-No. 25 Iowa, the score was at least closer than anticipated as the visitors easily covered the point spread.
The defense played much better than anyone could have asked for against the Hawkeyes, allowing only 284 yards of offense while holding the home team to just 6-of-17 conversions on third down.
The offense struggled mightily, however, and the play calling was very limited to short routes and screen passes as the quarterback Cooper Legas never really threatened to throw down the field.
Utah State also committed nine penalties that cost them 91 yards, something that will need cleaning up in the weeks ahead.
Even with the Week 1 loss, there does appear to be a way for the Aggies to get the six wins needed for a bowl berth on the schedule. The first one should come in the home opener against FCS Idaho State on Saturday.
Projection: Barstool Sports Arizona Bowl
Opponent: Miami (OH)
Date: Saturday, December 30
Location: Arizona Stadium – Tucson, AZ
Time and channel: 2:30 p.m. MT, Barstool.tv
