Utah vs. UCLA: 3 Keys to Victory for Kyle Whittingham's Utes
Facing the toughest opponent so far this season won't be an easy task for coach Kyle Whittingham and the bruised Utah Utes.
Still potentially without its starting quarterback among other injuries to notable players, Utah will have to put its best foot forward if it hopes to walk away unscathed record-wise for the fourth straight game. After that, Rising is likely to return (if he doesn't on Saturday) and things will be much smoother for the Utes.
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But they aren't there yet. They'll have to knock off the visiting Bruins first. Since 2015, Utah has done just that, winning three straight games at home against UCLA despite losing last season in Los Angeles. The two schools' series history is relatively even, but that doesn't make this week any easier.
So, ahead of Utah's Week 4 matchup against the Bruins, here are three keys to the game that will give it the best chance at winning:
1) Force Dante Moore Into Bad Throws
The Bruins have been perfect through three games so far as well, and largely due to strong play from freshman quarterback Dante Moore. While Moore hasn't filled the stat sheet with passing yards, he has proven to be highly aware and accurate.
The freshman has completed 62 percent of his throws this season — seven of which have been touchdowns — and only one interception, which puts his touchdown-interception ratio at a near perfect mark. If Utah isn't able to get into the backfield and force Moore into some rushed throws, he'll likely continue to find success from the backfield and help power the Bruins past their hosts.
On the other hand, forcing a turnover would not only prevent UCLA from scoring points, it would also add the pressure that Moore is facing. On the road against his first ranked opponent could be a spot for Utah to take advantage of Moore's inexperience, which could help stifle the Bruins' offense.
2) Start Fast and Don't Let Up
With or without Cameron Rising in the lineup, the Utes will have to find offensive success against UCLA's defense, and quickly. A fast start would not only help build momentum on the sideline, but in Rice-Eccles Stadium as well.
If Rising ends up making his debut, the added boost of crowd momentum would allow him to settle into the offense more smoothly, and if it ends up being Nate Johnson, the crowd would help calm his nerves and allow him to make plays in Rising's absence once again.
It's worth noting, however, that starting fast isn't enough on its own. After ideally finding quick success on offense, the Utes' next task will be to keep it going throughout the game to keep them in front and in control over UCLA.
Both parts of this plan are easier said than done, but if Utah wants to face a top-15 ranked Oregon State team as a 4-0 squad itself, fending off the Bruins is a nice start.
3) Lean on Defensive Strong Suits
As a whole, the Utes have recorded seven sacks and four interceptions.
Takeaways on defense are the ultimate momentum killer, but it shouldn't be looked over that Utah's secondary has recorded more interceptions than its linebackers have forced fumbles. Trying to poke the ball out unnecessarily could end up hurting the Utes instead of helping, whereas a secondary that's been known to make plays should be advised to simply do its thing.
Especially if the Utes can establish early offensive momentum, getting a takeaway, or at the very least a stop, would only double that feeling and allow them to feel comfortable and in control. Otherwise, it could be a long afternoon for them.
