Utes on the rise: Wide Receiver Money Parks

After an impressive 2022 performance, Money Parks is one of the Utes on the rise for the 2023 campaign.

With the 2022 Utah Football season now fully in the rear-view mirror and spring ball not too far off, it's time to reflect and review on the notable performances from this past year.

While players like Cameron Rising, Dalton Kincaid, Clark Phillips III and Cole Bishop made a lot of the big plays, there were a handful of younger players who made notable contributions and are certainly on the rise for 2023.

The following is a recap and analysis of sophomore Money Parks, his 2022 contributions, and what potential may lie in store.

Money Parks, Utah Utes Fall Camp / Courtesy of Utah Athletics

Arguably the most talked about player from fall camp, Parks was as advertised this season as he played in all 14 games and provided consistent production with several explosive plays in key games. 

Stepping into a bigger role this past season, Parks recorded 414 (third best on the team) yards and two touchdowns on 26 receptions (15.92 average, second best on the team).

From this offensive production, Parks strung together notable performances that included 71 yards against Southern Utah, 46 yards at UCLA, and a career-high 88 yards with a touchdown against USC in the Pac-12 Championship. In that same game, Parks also recorded an electric career-best 57 yard touchdown that gave Utah the lead and flipped the momentum into their favor.

As Utah searched for more pass production, especially after Kuithe was injured against Arizona State, Parks became a reliable target and stepped into a much bigger role during the Utes difficult stretch in October. 

Given his impressive speed, sticky hands and sound route running, Parks demonstrated that he can not only be a reliable and high volume target, but that he possesses the ability to explode for big plays.

Looking ahead to next season, Parks should step into the WR2 position behind Devaughn Vele now that Solomon Enis and Jaylen Dixon have moved on from the program. Additionally, with Dalton Kincaid headed to the league, Parks very well could be the third receiving option and should see an increase in terms of targets and production. 

With his explosiveness and big play ability, 2023 could be a Money season for Parks.

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