Bowl season is nearly here. Where might the Utes and Aggies be headed for the postseason?
Utah
Following a blowout loss to Arizona two weeks ago, the Utes took on Colorado in the regular season finale looking to end a two-game skid.
It wasn’t pretty by any means, but Utah did its job against the Buffaloes, winning 23-17 despite starting a walk-on, fifth-string quarterback.
Utah had high expectations coming into the campaign, but a slew of injuries – to starters in particular – ended its chances of a Pac-12 three-peat.
Considering the circumstances, however, the Utes should be thrilled to potentially be a 9-win team that wins a bowl game and maybe even sneaks into the final Top 25 rankings.
Looking for its first bowl win since 2017, Utah fans might not have to travel to far to see their team in the postseason.
Projection: SRS Distribution Las Vegas Bowl
Opponent: Maryland
Date: Saturday, December 23
Location: Allegiant Stadium – Paradise, NV
Time and channel: 5:30 p.m. MT, ABC
Utah State
After getting hammered by Boise State in its home finale, the Aggies had to win against New Mexico on Saturday to reach bowl eligibility.
Behind third-string quarterback Levi Williams, USU found a way to sneak out of Albuquerque with a 44-41 double overtime win in a game that featured an NCAA season-high 338 penalty yards.
Utah State will now be making its 11th bowl appearance in 13 seasons, including its third in a row.
While the destination might not be ideal, Utah State should relish the chance to play in the postseason once again. Finishing with a winning record and a bowl trophy would be a memorable ending to an up-and-down campaign.
Projection: Famous Idaho Potato Bowl
Opponent: Bowling Green
Date: Saturday, December 23
Location: Albertsons Stadium – Boise, ID
Time and channel: 1:30 p.m. MT, ESPN
