(7) Utah vs Florida
Utah has been a popular pick as the team outside the top 5 that could make the college football playoffs.
The Utes will be tested early with an early test at the Swamp on Saturday night.
All eyes will be on Utah quarterback Cameron Rising. Last season Rising threw for 20 TD passes and had a monster game in the Fiesta Bowl loss to Ohio State. Rising would pass 214 yards and 2 TD’s while running for 92 yards and a touchdown.
But the key to Utah’s success will be there defense. They have a front seven that could pose problems to opponents all season.
That unit will be tested by Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson.
Richardson is a dual threat quarterback that makes the Gators offense go. The challenge for Utah’s defense is to stay disciplined and contain the gaps to take away Richardson’s ability to make plays with his feet.
“Their quarterback is outstanding,” said head coach Kyle Whittingham. “I know there’s not a big body of work, but some people are projecting him as a top-10 pick this coming draft. He’s obviously got a ton of ability. Big kid, 6-foot-4, 240 pounds, really fast. He’s going to be a handful for us.”
The Utes defense should concentrate on making Richardson a high volume passer. If so, Utah’s defense will be able to force turnovers along with being able to score.
Line: Utah -3
Total: 50.5
