Home / Sports / Scalley Era Begins: Utes Dominate in Home Opener
Scalley Era Begins: Utes Dominate in Home Opener
4 Sep
Summary
- Morgan Scalley's Utes secured a dominant 66-14 victory in his coaching debut.
- Devon Dampier threw for three touchdowns and Wayshawn Parker scored three times in the first half.
- This marked Utah's highest score and largest margin of victory in the series.
The Morgan Scalley era for the Utah Utes football team commenced with an emphatic statement on Thursday night, as the team achieved a commanding 66-14 victory in his home debut at Rice-Eccles Stadium. This performance marked the most points and the largest margin of victory for Utah in the 29-game history of the series.
Quarterback Devon Dampier showcased his talent, completing 13 of 18 passes for 176 yards and three touchdowns in the first half alone. He was complemented by Wayshawn Parker, who amassed 94 total yards and three first-half touchdowns, including a dynamic 21-yard run. The offensive and defensive lines, largely new this season, provided solid protection and opened lanes, contributing to Utah's 633 total yards.
Backup quarterback Byrd Ficklin also contributed significantly, throwing for 93 yards and two touchdowns while adding 70 rushing yards. Transfer wide receiver Braden Pegan impressed with a touchdown reception and a score on an end-around. On the defensive side, the Utes limited Idaho to just 225 yards. The team now prepares for a more challenging matchup against Arkansas on September 12th.
