This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2011, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Win the turnover battle and win the game — that seems to be the theme of the year for the Utes, who combined for 14 turnovers in losses to Washington, Arizona State and Cal but had just one fumble Saturday.
The Utes returned to their old form and preyed upon Oregon State. The Utes, who entered Saturday's game tied for second in the league in turnovers gained (16) and tied for second in interceptions (seven), stole one from the Beavers on Saturday when corner Mo Lee intercepted a pass by Oregon State quarterback Sean Mannion in the second quarter.
Lee, a former receiver, intercepted the pass at Oregon State's 48-yard line and returned it 30 yards to the Beavers' 18-yard line. Two plays later, running back John White scored on a 6-yard rush to go up 17-0. The interception was the first for the junior, who was converted to corner this season.
In the third quarter, Ryan Lacy hauled down a tipped pass by Brian Blechen and returned it 10 yards.
Out again
Utah senior J.J. Williams suffered a foot injury in the first quarter and didn't return. The linebacker has been plagued by foot injuries and played in just two games last year.
He entered Saturday's game with 17 tackles and one interception this year.
The Utes have lost five key players to season-ending injuries: quarterback Jordan Wynn, punt returner Charles Henderson, tight end Dallin Rogers, safety Keith McGill and linebacker Boo Andersen.
Long time ago
Oregon State's safety in the fourth quarter was the first against the Utes since 2003, when Utah State had one in a 40-20 loss to the Utes.
Flag count
Oregon State entered the game leading the nation averaging 77.9 yards in penalties this season. The Beavers were flagged five times for 30 yards Saturday. The Utes had three penalties for 39 yards.