Utah Football: Updated game-by-game predictions for 2020
By Riley Platt
Utah will open up their 2020 campaign with a trip to the Pullman to face Washington State. The Cougars will have a new look after Mike Leach’s departure to Mississippi State. Former Hawaii head coach Nick Rolovich will now take over in Pullman. Brought along with him is a new system, which could take some time for the Cougars to adjust to.
Unfortunately for Wazzu, it loses starting quarterback Anthony Gordon, who thrived in Leach’s air-raid system. There is no set decision as of now as to who the starter will be. Because of this, the Cougars will need to lean on their stud running back Max Borghi to produce offensively.
Utah is known for its tough defense, and going up a new offensive system that could have some wrinkles plays right in its favor. Washington State could soon return to dominance, but it will take some time. Look for the Utes to win rather easily in their season opener.
Final Score: Utah 35, Washington State 17 (1-0)
After the trip to Pullman, the Cougars will head east to Boulder to take on Colorado. This is another team that enters 2020 with a new head coach. Mel Tucker left for Michigan State, leading to the hiring of Karl Dorrell. He will become Colorado’s third head coach in just the last three seasons.
Losing their two best offensive talents, Steven Montez and Laviska Shenault, Colorado will have some work to do. Going 5-7 last season, expectations weren’t high as is. When you factor in the loss of Montez, Shenault and Tucker, things aren’t looking great for 2020.
It’s most certainly going to be a rough year in Boulder, and this is a game that the Utes need to take advantage of. Utah can make a statement with a big win here, as statement opportunities will be reduced due to the shortened schedules nationwide. The Utes should have no trouble picking up a win in their second game.
Final Score: Utah 45, Colorado 10 (2-0)