Utah football: Defense rattles QBs in first camp scrimmage

With two-and-a-half weeks left until the season starts, the Utes' first fall scrimmage led coach Kyle Whittingham to declare the team still doesn't have a starting quarterback.

Utah's passers were often frustrated during the Tuesday morning live session at Rice-Eccles Stadium, as the defense held the top four quarterbacks to a combined 228 yards on 34 percent passing. Two fumbles, including one that was returned for 89 yards by safety Tevin Carter, also helped cement the defense's control of the scrimmage.

In all, the defense got three sacks, two other tackles for a loss and seven pass break-ups in addition to the fumbles. Defensive end Hunter Dimick was one of the more active Utes, notching a fumble recovery and a sack.

Among the offensive highlights were two Travis Wilson touchdown passes to Dres Anderson and Delshawn McClellon, and Kendal Thompson and Devontae Booker also ran two scores in. Walk-on receiver Tim Patrick led the receiving corps with six catches for 81 yards, including one pass he hauled in for a 34-yard gain.

While the offense did struggle with holding onto the ball, there were no interceptions in the session.

On special teams, Jon Halliday kicked two field goals. Kaelin Clay stood out in the return game with an 85-yard punt return for a touchdown.

kgoon@sltrib.com

Twitter: @kylegoon