'He Stood Out!' Utah Utes Coach Kyle Whittingham Speaks on Dijon Stanley, No-Huddle Offense
Once again, the Utah Utes are prepared to face the toughest challenge of their season.
Just one week removed from a momentum-building victory over the Arizona State Sun Devils, coach Kyle Whittingham and company will hit the road to Seattle to face the No. 5-ranked Washington Huskies.
Coming away victorious won't be easy in the slightest, especially given that both of the Utes' losses this season have come against ranked opponents.
But there is a bit of good news.
After running back Dijon Stanley saw some promising action last Saturday, he's set to play a bigger role in Utah's lineup, which could greatly benefit the injury-riddled team.
“When we were looking for guys to supplement what we’re doing offensively, [Staley] was a guy that stood out in practice," Whittingham said of the freshman's impact. "We thought, ‘Hey, let’s see if we can get him out in space a little bit and [make something happen],’ and he’s really excelled at that."
Utah Utes head coach Kyle Whittingham looks on from the sideline in the second quarter against the Oregon State Beavers at Rice-Eccles Stadium.
© Rob Gray-USA TODAY Sports
In his first game for the Utes, Staley tallied six carries and a first-down reception, which isn't anything major, but it was majorly promising.
"There’s not a big sample size," Whittingham said. "But the opportunities he’s got, he’s done well. He’s also a really valuable special teams contributor ... he’s got a bright future here. We really like him.”
With Staley in the lineup, the Utes will also be able to roll out a different kind of offense — though sparingly — which could give them an added benefit.
“No-huddle for us, as much as anything, is [about] the timing of it," Whittingham said. "Not necessarily that we do it, but when we do it is key for us. I think no-huddle is most effective that way — if you do it the entire game, it’s not as effective as if you if you turn it on and off.”
So, with Staley in and a no-huddle scheme in place, the Utes will look to earn a win against one of the nation's best ... on the road. It won't be easy, but it isn't impossible — especially if everything starts to click.
Kickoff from Husky Stadium is set for 1:30 p.m. MT.
