'Probably Not That Many': Utah Coach Kyle Whittingham Honest About Utes' Injuries
Midway through their week of preparation ahead of second straight ranked conference matchup, the Utah Utes are still perfect on paper.
Having risen one spot to No. 10 on the AP top-25, Utes fans have reason to be happy, but at the same time — scared. Nothing seems "perfect" for the battered Utes, who were missing a significant number of players to injury during last Saturday's matchup against UCLA.
And while Rising's return is nearing, even he will need some time to re-adjust to game speed and offensive coordinator Andy Ludwig's offense. But as mentioned above, he's not the only injury. And coach Kyle Whittingham is well aware of that fact.
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When asked about the Utes' list of around 8-10 injured players, ranging from running back Ja’Quinden Jackson to receiver Mycah Pittman and tight end Brant Kuithe — among others — Whittingham gave an honest response regarding their potential availability for Friday's Oregon State matchup:
"It’s probably not that many."
Whittingham went on state that he was unsure how many players the Utes could expect back against the Beavers, which isn't exactly promising. With Cameron Rising still out at quarterback, missing multiple other offensive weapons isn't ideal, but it is something the Utes are all-too-used to at this point.
Having come away with four straight wins — the latest of which against a ranked conference opponent — Utah has proven itself capable of competing despite not being healthy, and if Whittingham's comments are any indicator of a worst-case scenario, where Utah goes without almost all of their missing players, they may have to do so again. But until Saturday's kickoff, there remains hope for the Utes to get healthy.
Kyle Whittingham and the Utah Utes will hit the road to take on Oregon State in a ranked conference matchup, looking to keep their perfect record intact. Kickoff from Reser Stadium is scheduled for 7 p.m. MT.
