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For some programs, special teams are a bit player. For the last few years at Utah,http://espn.go.com/blog/pac12/post/_/id/92621/meet-the-most-interesting-position-unit-in-college-football-utahs-special-teamers";> it's been thrust into the foreground.

The Utes' special teams lose the best punter in the country, but return a standout kicker, snapper and some return game talent. Can the Utes keep up their reputation as one of the best-oiled special teams units in college football?

Starters and stats • Senior K Andy Phillips (23 for 27 FGs); Sophomore P Mitch Wishnowsky; Senior LS Chase Dominguez; junior PR Boobie Hobbs (9 returns, 79 yards, 1 TD); senior KR Cory Butler-Byrd (8 returns, 223 yards, 1 TD) and sophomore Tavaris Williams.

Key performer • Phillips is the elder statesman here, http://bit.ly/29BbI2L";>a returning captain as well as a three-time Lou Groza Award semifinalist. He's made big kicks in his career, and assumed the all-time leading scorer position at Utah last year. Now a senior, he'll be called upon to put up points when an inexperienced offense can't finish drives in the end zone.

Spring rewindhttp://bit.ly/1RSPK54";>Wishnowsky arrived early and started assuming Tom Hackett's role as punter. Kyle Whittingham said nothing is completely settled at punt returner. Shttp://www.sltrib.com/home/3392049-155/utah-football-shah-ena-named-special";>harrieff Shah and Justin Ena took on special teams as co-coordinators, although every staff member has a hand in special teams play. Worth noting also that Phillips has taken some punts and Wishnowsky has tried some kicks.

Out the door • http://bit.ly/1moHiS8";>Hackett is the huge loss here, a two-time Ray Guy Award winner who had a knack for coffin corner punts, soaring kicks when needed (47.9 ypp) and making big plays under pressure. The Utes also will miss punt returner Britain Covey (on his LDS Church mission), http://bit.ly/1PLBP3U";>who made dynamic, tackle-dodging runs last year for special teams.

New faces • The latest Australian import, Wishnowsky has a big leg and reportedly doesn't let up in the gym. But the question remains if he's a smooth operator under pressure, and if he can do the occasional trick play that Hackett had in his back pocket when Utah needed a first down. It's also worth wondering if some of Utah's speedy newcomers, such as Florida freshmen Devonta'e Henry-Cole or http://bit.ly/1Sorfwj";>Demari Simpkins, can find a way to factor in as return men.

Question marks • Will Wishnowsky give Utah a similar advantage to Hackett? Kyle Whittingham often described Hackett's precision as a weapon that helped flip the field and give Utah field position advantages. Also, will Utah be able to produce in the return game? Cory Butler-Byrd had a few flashes last year, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nc9fNzjUksU";>highlighted by his breathtaking return against Fresno State, but he isn't always consistent. Covey's loss, meanwhile, will be felt on multiple fronts, and it's unclear whether the Utes can replace him. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m4JMFKVut44";>Hobbs had his shining moment against Oregon thanks to deception, but he must prove he can make plays when all eyes are on him.

Forecast • Phillips and Dominguez are as solid as special teamers get in the nation, and it's difficult to see Utah losing a special team edge with their lock-step routine. Wishnowsky has had time to learn with his new teammates and some personal coaching from Hackett: While he may not be the best in the country, he's expected to continue to help the Utes on punts. The return game is a great unknown, and while there's no obvious Kaelin Clay-type talent, the Utes have some speed to work with (Kyle Fulks, perhaps as well?). Special teams may not be quite as outstanding as it's been, but there's enough continuity and talent to suggest it should still be an edge.

The schedule for football previews are as follows ahead of camp, which starts Aug. 4:

http://bit.ly/2auIXBM";>July 26 • Defensive line
July 27 • Specialists
July 28 • Offensive line/Tight ends
July 29 • Defensive backs
Aug. 1 • Running backs/Receivers
Aug. 2 • Linebackers
Aug. 3 • Quarterback

kgoon@sltrib.com
Twitter: @kylegoon