Utah TE Brant Kuithe ruled out vs. No. 9 BYU

The Utes playmaker had two touchdowns before exiting in Salt Lake City

Rob Gray-Imagn Images

Utah Utes tight end Brant Kuithe has been ruled out for the remainder of the Holy War matchup against 9th-ranked BYU, marking a significant blow to a team looking to snap a four-game losing streak.

Kuithe’s early performance gave Utah a much-needed boost as he scored two of their three touchdowns in the second quarter. His athleticism and skill were on full display, helping the Utes maintain a competitive edge and hinting at a breakout performance that could have shifted the momentum in their favor.

However, Kuithe's promising outing was cut short when he went down with an apparent injury. He was taken to the locker room for evaluation, and despite hopes for his return, he re-emerged on the sidelines in street clothes, signaling his inability to continue. The sight of Kuithe in street clothes was a tough visual for fans and teammates alike, as his absence leaves a considerable void in Utah's offensive strategy with quarterback Brandon Rose getting his first start.

Kuithe’s impact goes beyond his physical skills; as a veteran player, he brings leadership and a level-headed presence that steadies the team, especially in high-stakes games like the Holy War. Losing him not only disrupts the offensive rhythm but also puts additional pressure on the Utes' players to step up in a challenging environment.

As the Utes strive to end their losing streak, Kuithe's absence underscores the uphill battle they face against a determined BYU team, wanting to keep a perfect season intact. Without his playmaking ability, Utah must rely on other offensive players to fill the gap, a daunting task considering Kuithe's experience and versatility. His injury could be a pivotal factor in the outcome of the game, making Utah's path to victory all the more challenging.