This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2010, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
No doubt, plenty of players were nervous before Thursday's kickoff of the season opener. But Utah senior Shaky Smithson was the shakiest player of all.
The senior receiver fumbled in the first quarter after a catch then botched a punt return that was recovered by Pitt.
The Panthers, who failed to take advantage of the first mistake when a 42-yard field goal attempt missed wide left, didn't let the second gift go by the wayside.
The Panthers recovered the punt on Utah's 28-yard line and needed just five plays to score with a run by sophomore Dion Lewis.
Smithson received an earful from coach Kyle Whittingham after his second mistake and was replaced by Reggie Dunn and Griff McNabb for returns for the remainder of the half.
He finished the first half with one catch for three yards.
Smithson was one of Utah's better players in 2009, getting time at receiver, running back and on special teams. He averaged 86.5 all-purpose yards to rank eighth in the MWC.
Smithson led Utah in kickoff returns (22) and yards (543) and returned punts the last three games, finishing with 13 returns for 123 yards.
Shaking up the lineup
The Utes started Matt Martinez and Chaz Walker as linebackers along with Chad Manis. J.J. Williams, originally slated to start at rover, was held out due to the foot injury he suffered in camp. His backup, Jamel King, dressed but didn't play due to a hamstring injury.
Watching and rating
NFL scouts from Atlanta, Buffalo, Indianapolis, Jacksonville, Kansas City, Oakland, Pittsburgh, San Diego, Seattle and Tampa Bay were on hand for the game. The game drew more than the usual number since it was one of the few played Thursday.