This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2013, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
With two players the Utes thought would be crucial to the success of the passing game this year now sidelined, who will step in for Kenneth Scott and tight end Jake Murphy? Good question. The Utes hope walk-on freshman Siale Fakailoatonga will grow into the tight end position since senior Westlee Tonga is sidelined too, but replacing a veteran such as Murphy is a difficult, difficult challenge. Adding to the Utes' predicament is they relied on Murphy to help make up for a lack of depth at receiver. Now it's time for the receivers to make up for the injuries at tight end. The Utes need more consistent production out of Sean Fitzgerald and Anthony Denham. The two have had some solid efforts, but so far Dres Anderson, who has four 100-yard games, is the only Ute posting big numbers. One other receiver to keep an eye on is sophomore Geoffrey Norwood. At 5-foot-8, 175-pounds, Norwood isn't one of the most imposing receivers to take the field, but he is fast and is capable of turning a short pass into a big gain.Keep an eye on him, he might be the next guy to step up. The Utes certainly need someone to rise to the occasion. - Lya Wodraska