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In a thrilling rivalry matchup, Isaac Wilson made a memorable debut as Utah’s starting quarterback, leading the No. 12 Utes to a 35-21 victory over Utah State. With 239 passing yards and three touchdowns, the true freshman quarterback showcased poise and skill, stepping up for the injured Cam Rising. Nine different Utah players caught passes from Wilson, as he became the first true freshman in program history to throw for three touchdowns in his debut.
Wilson quickly found his rhythm after a slow first quarter, helping the Utes overcome an early 14-3 deficit. His connection with receivers like Money Parks and Caleb Lohner brought Utah back into the game before halftime, with Lohner's 11-yard leaping touchdown catch giving Utah a 17-14 lead going into the break. Wilson's confidence grew throughout the game, setting the stage for a dominant offensive performance in the second half.
Complementing Wilson’s aerial attack was running back Micah Bernard, who powered Utah’s ground game with 123 rushing yards and a touchdown. Bernard’s efforts, including a career-long 64-yard run, helped solidify Utah’s control of the game after halftime. The Utes amassed 460 yards of total offense and averaged 6.2 yards per play, demonstrating a well-rounded offensive effort.
On the defensive side, Utah made crucial plays to turn the tide. Cornerback Smith Snowden’s first-quarter interception in the end zone prevented Utah State from extending their early lead, and Cameron Calhoun’s 34-yard return on his first career interception set up the go-ahead score. Despite a strong start by Utah State, led by former Utah quarterback Bryson Barnes, the Aggies couldn’t maintain their momentum after early big plays and costly interceptions.
Barnes passed for 223 yards and two touchdowns, but his two interceptions shifted momentum back in Utah’s favor. Despite some bright spots, including a 115-yard rushing performance by Utah State’s Rashul Faison, the Aggies couldn’t overcome critical breakdowns on both sides of the ball.
“We had everything working,” said Utah running back Micah Bernard.
“Isaac (Wilson) was throwing the ball well, and the receivers were getting open. Once we started running efficiently, that’s the kind of game we can have.”
The rivalry between Utah and Utah State dates back to 1892, and this victory marks Utah’s 15th win in their last 16 meetings. Utah’s defense played a key role in holding off Utah State's early push, as the Aggies struggled to capitalize on critical opportunities, including two missed field goals.
Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham acknowledged his team’s slow start but praised their resilience.
“We kind of sleepwalked through that first quarter,” he said, “but got things going after that.”
Utah will now turn its focus to a tough road game at Oklahoma State in their Big 12 opener, while Utah State looks to regroup as they face Temple next.
Utah State had chances to shift the game’s momentum, but crucial errors, including two missed field goals and a lost red-zone interception, prevented the Aggies from staying competitive in the second half.
Caleb Lohner, a transfer from Baylor and a former basketball player, made his second career catch for Utah, and both have been touchdowns. Lohner’s presence as a red-zone target could be a key weapon for the Utes moving forward.
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