Wilson cleared to participate in spring ball

Dave Christensen, Utah's new offensive coordinator, might have had one of his biggest issues solved Monday with the news that doctors have cleared Travis Wilson to participate in spring ball. Technically he was cleared for non-contact drills, but that is a moot point since the Utes normally don't allow their quarterbacks to be hit. Having Wilson back in the fold gives Christensen an experienced quarterback with which to work. Let's face it, the thoughts of the Utes going into the season with a new offensive coordinator and an inexperienced quarterback had to make Utah fans cringe. If the Utes went 5-7 the last two years, what would happen to them in 2014 when they faced an even tougher schedule with a young quarterback? While Wilson will continue to be monitored, he is "in the clear," from the doctors' stance, according to his mother, JoMarie. If his condition doesn't change, the only thing that could keep Wilson from resuming his role as the starting quarterback is if he is beaten out by sophomore Adam Schulz or one of the freshmen in Brandon Cox, Conner Manning or Micah Thomas. Wilson did struggle at times last year, throwing 16 interceptions, but some of those were the mistakes of his receivers and others could be blamed on his hand injury. The mistakes did affect Wilson too as he looked more unsure of himself and hesitant in his decision making as the turnovers mounted. Then came news of his medical condition and many probably thought we'd seen the last of Wilson on the football field. Luckily for him it sounds like that won't be the case. My hunch is he'll be rejuvenated after this medical scare and he'll want to prove he can successfully lead the Utes. Monday wasn't all good news for the Utes as freshman defensive lineman Moana Ofahengaue remained in critical condition following an accident on a motorized bike Sunday. He suffered a serious head injury according to University of Utah hospital spokesperson Kathy Wilets. Ofahengaue is from Saratoga Springs, Utah, and joined the Utes as a walk-on in January of 2013. "Our thoughts and prayers are with Moana and his family during this very difficult time," Utah coach Kyle Whittingham said in a statement. - Lya Wodraska