Utes Gear Up for Showdown with #17 Cincinnati Saturday Night

UPDATE: The Utah Utes are primed for a crucial top-25 showdown against the #17 Cincinnati Bearcats this Saturday night, October 28, 2023, at 8:15 p.m. at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Following a dominant 53-7 victory over Colorado, the Utes are riding high, with head coach Kyle Whittingham declaring, “just all positives” from the recent game.

New reports confirm that the Utes are not just celebrating their recent success but are also strategizing for this pivotal matchup in the Big 12 Conference. Whittingham emphasized that distractions from ESPN’s College GameDay, returning to Utah for the sixth time, will be managed effectively. “The biggest distraction is guys just knowing that they’re on center stage,” he stated.

In a standout performance, Byrd Ficklin stepped up in his first career start, rushing for 151 yards and scoring a touchdown while also tossing two touchdown passes. His efforts earned him the title of Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week. “My phone was blowing up,” Ficklin said after the game. “First start, first win—just enjoying the win with my teammates.”

As the Utes prepare for Cincinnati, the status of starting quarterback Devon Dampier remains uncertain. Whittingham noted, “Dampier has certainly been feeling better each day,” but the decision will hinge on his progress leading up to the game. “If he’s not ready, then we know Bird is ready to go again,” he added.

This matchup carries immense significance, not only for the teams but for the entire community. The Utes, currently holding a record of 6-2 with a 3-2 standing in the Big 12, are looking to boost their rankings further. Cincinnati, boasting a record of 7-1 and an undefeated 5-0 in conference play, will be a formidable opponent.

Fans are encouraged to rally behind their team as they aim to break the trend of losses during previous GameDay appearances. Whittingham believes the event is beneficial for the University of Utah and the state, stating, “It’s great for the program, the community, and the state of Utah.”

With kickoff approaching rapidly, all eyes will be on Rice-Eccles Stadium this Saturday. Expect an electrifying atmosphere as the Utes seek to continue their momentum and secure a vital victory against Cincinnati.