2009 Utah Utes Predictions
2008 Record: (13-0, 8-0)
Coach: Kyle Whittingham 5th year (37-14 overall)
Off. Coordinator: Dave Schramm (1st year)
Def. Coordinator: Kalani Sitake (1st year)
Returning Starters: 11 (4 offense, 7 defense)
Ret. Starting Quarterback: No

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Offense: The Utes will have to replace quarterback Brian Johnson, a major loss to an offense that will need some re-tooling. Replacing the MCW Offensive Player of the Year will be difficult, but the Utes hope junior Corbin Louks is up to the task. Louks was used in running situations last year as he averaged 8.1 yards per carry and scored three times. Juco transfer Terrance Cain along with freshman Jordan Wynn could play if Louks can’t handle the passing part of the spread offense. At running back, senior Matt Asiata (5-11, 230) returns as the leading rusher with 707 yards and will team up with junior speed back Eddie Wide. The top three receivers are gone so they’ll turn to backups Jerem Brooks, David Reed and Aiona Key. The offensive line will be the strength of the unit with three starters returning, including senior LT Zane Beadles (6-4, 305).

Defense: The Utes return seven starters on defense but they lose star DE Paul Kruger to the NFL. They allowed just 17.2ppg and 289.1 yards per game last year. Sophomore Derrick Shelby (6-3, 250) and junior Nai Fotu (6-0, 224) will try to replace him. Rover linebacker Stevenson Sylvester (6-2, 224) is an All-American, who had 73 tackles and three sacks in the Sugar Bowl win over Alabama. The concern is the health of LB Nai Fotu (6-0, 235), who was held out of the spring following knee surgery. They have to replace both starting corners, but senior safties Joe Dale and Robert Johnson return. Johnson led the team in picks last year with four.

Outlook: Utah hosts Utah State, then takes on San Jose State, Oregon on the road and Louisville at home. They beefed up their schedule somewhat from last season, though they couldn’t help that a road win against Michigan last season, meant a lot less than it used. Taking on BYU and TCU on the road will be very difficult.

This Mountain West conference prediction is courtesy of the ATS Sports Blog. If you are looking for winning college football betting picks be sure to choose ATS Consultants this year, A featured sports handicapping service on Touthouse.com

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