Cam Rising reportedly out for Utah's opener against Florida, Bryson Barnes to start
Last season we saw Utah come up oh so close to holding off Anthony Richardson and Florida.
Heading into 2023, there was a belief that with a healthy Cam Rising that Utah would be able to avenge their loss from last season. There was however an issue with that, as Rising has been battling and recovering from a knee injury suffered during the Rose Bowl last season.
There was optimism injected into Utah fans as he was listed as the starter on their depth chart that they released ahead of the matchup, but according to a report by ESPN's Pete Thamel, Rising is doubtful for and not expected to play. This report confirms what some were expecting, which was some pre-game pageantry by head coach Kyle Whittingham. It is also a tad ironic when you consider we recently learned that Florida was attempting to pursue Rising should he have entered the transfer portal after last season.
With Rising likely out, the Utes will start Junior Bryson Barnes who has done well in his limited opportunities. Redshirt freshman Nate Johnson who was pushing for the backup role will also see snaps, as he is an extremely dynamic athlete that can help create in the run game.
As for Barnes, he played in 10 games last year, completing 37 of 57 passes for four touchdowns and two interceptions. In his lone start, he led the Utes to a victory over Washington State. The Utes are viewed as 4.5 point favorites, and according to ESPN's FPI have a 73.6% chance of winning.
