Three Utah Utes to watch vs. Deion Sanders and the Colorado Buffaloes

Both Colorado and Utah will play many backups in the season finale

The Utah Utes have lost their last two games but have long secured a bowl. This is the last PAC-12 game for both teams before they each join the Big 12 next season. With the number of injuries Utah has endured, this is arguably one of Kyle Whittingham’s finest coaching jobs in his distinguished career.

Here are the three Utes to watch today. 

Luke Bottari was a walk on player for Utah from last season. In spring of 2023, he transferred to Cal. Bottari eventually transferred back to Utah after discovering he was so low on the depth chart that he would never step onto the field for Cal. Remarkably, due to injuries and illness, Luke is now starting in his first game as a high level collegiate quarterback.

Coach Whittingham has referred to Ja’Quinden Jackson as a “warrior”. He is seemingly always battling through injuries that would sideline most players. He will be a real test for the Colorado’s defensive line as he’s tough to bring down on first contact. On the season, he’s compiled 674 yards rushing and scored 4 touchdowns.

Safety Sione Vaki will definitely be one to watch on the Utes side of the field today. A strong safety, he has continued to play both offense and defense in several key games for Utah. He has 37 tackles and one interception for the season on defense but he also has 5 touchdowns on offense. Vaki is also a finalist Paul Horning award.

Overall, the Utes should feel comfortable in the idea that they have three exciting players for their final PAC-12 game.