Takeaways From Utah Football’s Assistant Coaches Availability

Aug 16, 2024, 2:10 PM | Updated: Aug 17, 2024, 1:58 pm

KSL Sports

SALT LAKE CITY – Utah football has hit the conclusion of camp which provided the opportunity to chat with Kyle Whittingham’s assistant coaches.

The media got 30 minutes apiece with the offensive staff and defensive staff. Here are some of the quick takeaways.

“Head on a swivel and ready to roll.” 🍽️#GoUtes pic.twitter.com/uBdrhyASSv

— Utah Football (@Utah_Football) August 16, 2024

Lots of optimism with the Utah Football offense

In talking to assistant coaches today, there is a lot of confidence on that side of the ball and a great deal of respect for it from defensive coaches. Iron sharpens iron was a common phrase with defensive coaches when asked about the offense.

Offensive coordinator Andy Ludwig shared he’s confident in the trajectory of the team. He feels much better about this group after 15 practices. He also noted that doesn’t mean that they are comfortable with where they are.

“I’ve seen major improvements all across the board from each position group,” Ludwig said. “We’ve got a lot of work to do but again, confident in what I’m seeing on the practice field right now.”

It’s not that everything is going well, every snap, every period, every day. There are ups and downs. There are mistakes. It’s all part of the process and addressing the problems as they arise is key to progress.

“We’re getting better every day. Individually, collectively, each guy has shown improvement in an area,” he said. “But you know, in football and in life, if you identify one problem and get it corrected, then another problem shows up and you just keep working through that process.”

What led Isaac Wilson to earn the backup quarterback job?

Ultimately, it comes down to taking care of the ball and putting points on the board. The biggest part of that has been the improved decision-making Wilson has displayed throughout camp.

Ludwig credits Wilson’s willingness to lock in mentally during camp. He’s improved in the quarterback room and that’s led to improvements on the field.

Andy Ludwig on what has allowed and led @Isaac_kawika to earning the backup role. pic.twitter.com/WFx6GVOnAa

— Steve Bartle (@BartleKSLsports) August 16, 2024

Is Caleb Lohner just an athlete or is he a good football player and tight end?

“All of the above, all of the above,” Ludwig answered. There has been a lot of buzz around Lohner and based on what I’ve gathered, there is good reason for that, he has consistently made plays throughout camp.

However, Ludwig made it clear that this is still a long process for him. But one that they are trying to accelerate with as many reps as possible.

“You talk about a guy that has learned something new every day,” Ludwig shared. “He’s in his 15th football practice, maybe ever. But with his athleticism, his range, he’s got excellent ball skills, we are force-feeding that young man.”

Lohner has impressed so much in this transition that he will be a big focus for coaches in the final days before the season kicks off.

Don’t forget about Dijon Stanley at running back

A lot of the conversation around the running back room has revolved around Micah Bernard, Jaylon Glover, and Mike Mitchell. However, do not forget about the fourth guy because he could be a game-changer for Utah this season.

There are definitely three but don’t forget about the fourth guy in the running back room… pic.twitter.com/QKihQJcye1

— Steve Bartle (@BartleKSLsports) August 16, 2024

Has Morgan Scalley’s confidence in the defensive line remained high?

Not only has the confidence remained high, it seems to have risen for Utah’s defensive coordinator. Utah has veteran leaders on the interior and it sounds like they’ve got guys that will help them get after the quarterback.

Junior Tafuna and Keanu Tanuvasa play a big role in that with their leadership. While the defensive end group seems to be making capable of getting pressure with minimal numbers, which is significant.

A lot of confidence in the defensive line, this group will be vital to defensive success this year (much like every year). pic.twitter.com/SKEkBANdAu

— Steve Bartle (@BartleKSLsports) August 16, 2024

The guy no one is talking about, Connor O’Toole

Utah is in need of a dynamic pass rusher. It is a deep group of defensive ends at Utah this season and the guy that seems to be trending towards becoming that is Connor O’Toole.

“Overall, he’s just done some really good things, and he’s probably been my most consistent,” Powell said of O’Toole. “Going into year three as a pass rusher, he’s developed different types of moves. He’s improved as a leader, not only by example but being more vocal as well.”

Offensive line coach Jim Harding credited O’Toole for helping redshirt freshman, Caleb Lomu, get prepared for what’s to come this season.

“He’s had his hands full with Connor O’Toole,” Harding said of Lomu. “There’s certainly been a lot of humbling reps but I think he has learned and I think he’s held his own.”

With the depth Utah has at the position, they’re going to be effective and solid this season. It seems if O’Toole can take that next step in his game, it will be a huge boost to the potential impact this group can make this season.