Today was one of the rough days for all the quarterbacks. All of the top three quarterbacks threw interceptions, and there was at least one fumble in the red zone from a mishandled handoff. Coach Whittingham chalked it up to just “one of those days” in camp.
Whittingham is overall pleased with the way Kendal Thompson is scrambling less in favor of playing within the offensive system more. Kendal did escape a sure coverage sack and scrambled through some defenders for a first down today.
Whittingham is also pleased with the way Chase Hansen’s arm strength improved over the summer. Hansen likewise had a nice scramble away from pressure from Pita Taumoepenu (and chased some defensive coaches off the field in the process) before throwing the ball away safely. He also threw one of the best passes of the day for a touchdown in the corner.
Travis Wilson was more in sync with wide receivers today despite an interception or two, and is happy with the way the younger wideouts have been stepping up.
Utah cornerbacks snuffed out several isolation plays that the offense was working on with several receivers.
The offensive line is showing a solid amount of depth beyond the returning 4 starters. Jackson Barton and Sam Tevi both had a nice showing at left tackle. Backup center Hiva Lutui had a great day in the interior, and Whittingham confirmed that he’s had a great camp, saying he may be one of the top 5 offensive linemen. If that holds true, they will likely find a spot for him somewhere on the line. At this point though, it is too soon to tell.
The Utes were in full pads today for the first time. Tomorrow is the first two-a-day, and Thursday will be the first scrimmage of camp.
