Utes Gear Up for Showdown Against #17 Cincinnati Saturday Night

BREAKING: The University of Utah Utes are primed for a critical showdown against #17 Cincinnati this Saturday night, October 28, 2023, at 8:15 p.m. in Salt Lake City. This game comes on the heels of a dominant 53-7 victory over Colorado, showcasing the Utes’ strength and determination.

Head coach Kyle Whittingham expressed confidence in his team’s performance, stating, “You know, just all positives. Really nothing negative coming out of that game.” The Utes’ defense was particularly impressive, racking up seven sacks and limiting Colorado to under 150 yards of offense.

This matchup against Cincinnati is crucial for both teams, as the Utes (6-2, 3-2 Big 12) look to maintain momentum in the Big 12 Conference. With the return of ESPN’s ‘College GameDay’ to the University of Utah, the stakes are higher than ever. This marks the sixth time the popular show has visited Salt Lake City, but the Utes have struggled historically during these appearances.

The spotlight will be on Byrd Ficklin, who stepped up in his first career start in place of the injured Devon Dampier. Ficklin shined with 151 rushing yards and two touchdown passes, earning Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week honors. “My phone was blowing up,” Ficklin said, reflecting on his performance. “First start, first win, I was just enjoying the win with my teammates.”

“I told him, I’ve got full confidence in him,” Dampier said about Ficklin. “His confidence is through the roof.”

As for who will start against Cincinnati, Whittingham confirmed, “[Dampier] is certainly feeling better each day… if he’s not ready, then we know Byrd is ready to go again if he needs to be.”

With both teams entering the game with high stakes—Cincinnati boasts a record of 7-1 and a perfect 5-0 in conference play—the atmosphere at Rice-Eccles Stadium is sure to be electric. Whittingham believes that the attention from ‘College GameDay’ will ultimately benefit the program. “It’s good for the program. In the big picture, it’s great for the university, the program, the community, and the state of Utah,” he stated.

Fans are eager for what promises to be a thrilling encounter. Stay tuned for live updates as the Utes prepare to face Cincinnati in this pivotal Big 12 clash.