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The Utes will get a little extra help on defense this year with Timpview grad Pita Taumoepenu, a 6-foot-1, 220-pound defensive end/linebacker, accepting an offer to join the Utes. He had offers from BYU and Utah State, but said he finally decided on the Utes after talking with his mother. "I had a hard time deciding but I have been a fan of Utah for a long time and I am comfortable there," he said. Taumoepenu said he hopes to join the team this week after NCAA requirements are met. "I'm ready to go," he said.