Sep 19, 2015; Fresno, CA, USA; Utah Utes defensive back Cory Butler-Boyd (16) returns a kickoff for a touchdown against the Fresno State Bulldogs in the fourth quarter at Bulldog Stadium. The Utes defeated the Bulldogs 45-24. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
2. Utah has a legitimate shot to upset Oregon
The Utah Utes have been a machine so far this season, grinding out wins in games that never felt like they were in doubt. The Utes use a stifling defense and a bruising running game to pound their opponents into submission. This is a quick hitting, explosive team.
They do not look to land a haymaker and put the game away. Instead, they consistently land body blows for four quarters until finally the other team is forced to tap out. Look for that formula to be tested in week three against the Ducks, but not look surprised if the Utes keep the game close.
Oregon had another mismatch this week, recovering from the brutality of the Michigan State defense by lighting up hapless Georgia State 61-28. However, with this Utah squad’s ability to control the game at the line of scrimmage, and the vulnerability of this version of the Blur offense, this game is not a guaranteed win by the Ducks, even in Autzen Stadium.
I fully expect the Utes to control this game early, and only playing the actual game will prove if Vernon Adams and Oregon have enough firepower to push past Utah.
Next: California is a contender in the North