Behind star senior RB Zack Moss, Utah zips around and through rival BYU

Moss stakes claim as nation's top senior runner in splashy 2019 debut

Featuring a two-headed monster along the defensive line that already ranks among my top 32 eligible NFL prospects and a dominant running game behind senior star Zack Moss, the Utah Utes thumped rival BYU Thursday night, validating the former's No. 14 overall preseason ranking - the highest in school history.

Defensive touchdowns off of interceptions played a key role in the game but the clear star was Moss.

The 5-09, 222 pounder (pictured above) had already racked up 140 yards and a touchdown when the game was delayed in the fourth quarter due to weather, extending the game well past 1 am Eastern Time with the Utes in control at 30-12.

As such, many across the country didn't see Moss and the Utes disassemble a solid (and proud) BYU squad. Those that saw highlights, probably saw the following jaunt by Moss, who checks in among our our top-rated senior running backs for the 2020 NFL draft.

And, let's be clear - this is a terrific demonstration of Moss' vision, burst and willingness to fight through would-be tacklers.

Or perhaps this one, which shows his quickness to and through the hole in short yardage situations.

Long runs and touchdowns tend to get plenty of focus on the highlight shows. The following two runs also from Thursday night's win over BYU, however, better demonstrate Moss' elusiveness and balance - making them much more helpful for scouts than the statistically-superior runs.

Check out Moss' balance on this Houdini-like escape.

Zack Moss does ballet in his free time pic.twitter.com/MzyhWCFsEA

— Trevor Jay (@TrevorJayCFB) August 30, 2019

And the subtle sidestep on this one, as well as his ability to get low and run through his pads to finish the run.

Great run by #Utah RB #2 Zack Moss. Forces #BYU LB #41 Keenan Pili to commit, then jump cuts effortlessly into another gap. And then the requisite yards-after-contact. So glad he's healthy again. pic.twitter.com/7w9LchEPsW

— Fed Scivittaro (@FedScivittaro) August 30, 2019

Moss has eclipsed the 1,000 yard rushing mark each of the past two seasons for the Utes. He took a strong first step towards accomplishing this feat for a third time Thursday night.