This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2014, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Minutes after victory, Utah coach Kyle Whittingham looked like he was ready to play the next game right away.
Who could blame him? The Utes' first-string units got plenty of rest in the second half in the 59-27 win over Fresno State on Saturday. And they must've felt even more anxious after watching the later 37-0 drubbing Michigan suffered at Notre Dame's hands.
As it stands, there's a two-week wait before Utah can march into the Big House, an early interruption to a great start to the season.
"Whenever a bye happens, it happens," Whittingham said. "You try to make it a positive."
One big positive, from the Utes' perspective: On a weekend when many of their future opponent this season flashed weakness, Utah showed strength.
In two games - albeit one against an FCS team - the Utes have the No. 4 scoring offense in the country. Quarterback Travis Wilson looks as healthy and composed as he ever has, with seven total touchdowns in two games while maintaining the second-best passing efficiency rating in all of college football. With receiving and rushing weapons, Dave Christensen's offense looks primed.
Utah's defense took a big step from week one to week two by starting off with five three-and-outs against Fresno State. They lead the nation in sacks, and are second in tackles for a loss.
Shoot: Even special teams has been strong thus far, with punter Tom Hackett pinning opposing offenses and Andy Phillips perfect on PATs and knocking touchbacks.
Now take all that, and compare: The Wolverines were trounced this weekend. Washington State got bumped by Nevada. Oregon State, UCLA, and Arizona barely escaped non-Power 5 teams. USC beat out Stanford in an ugly slugfest that didn't do much to enhance either team's profile. Aside from a huge win by Oregon over Michigan State, it wasn't a banner Saturday for the Pac-12.
Most fans consider the borderline for success to be a bowl game. If the Utes make one, that's a good season. If they don't, that's a disappointment.
But the way the Utes played Saturday, they've started to perk hopes of more than six wins. In a topsy-turvy football weekend, Utah appeared to be big winners.
Two weeks from now will test that assertion. While the Utes would love to keep rolling next weekend, they'll wait for their moment to arrive.
"Really we're just focused on Michigan," Dres Anderson said. "We know we have a tough schedule, but Michigan is a tough task. We're going into that game with high hopes."
Twitter: @kylegoon —
Utah at Michigan
P Sept. 20, TBA