BYU head coach Kalani Sitake will need to carve out a little extra time for Fox’s “Big Noon Kickoff" on Saturday morning.
But nearly every other minute this week will be devoted to game planning against Utah’s new quarterback, Devon Dampier.
Known for his rushing ability, Dampier ran for 1,000 yards at New Mexico and is nearing 400 yards in six games this season. Even if his deep passing attack is still a question, Sitake knows the Utes’ star will be a handful.
“He’s tough, man. He has great vision, and that’s in the passing game and in the running game. He’s an efficient player,” Sitake said. “You look at the stats — he knows where to go with the ball, and he’s well coached. I think [Utah offensive coordinator] Jason Beck’s done a great job tutoring him, mentoring him. There’s a reason why they brought him with him.”
Dampier has a 71 percent completion rate, a significant bump up from 57 percent a year ago. His rushing attack has BYU worried, but the quick completions also concern Sitake.
“I think a lot of attention will go to his legs, because he can run,” Sitake said. “But he can throw, too. I like his overall presence on the field. Definitely respect what he does, and he’s going to be dangerous. [We will] try to disrupt his timing, and disrupt everything he can do positively on the field. But that’s easier said than done.”
Sitake pointed out the rest of Utah’s offense that has bounced back after a loss to Texas Tech. The Utes put up 40-plus points against West Virginia and Arizona State.
“There’s a reason why [Dampier’s] one of the most efficient quarterbacks in college football. We’ll have to figure out a way to slow him down. I don’t know if you can stop him, but we’re going to try our best,” Sitake said. “This is a complete team. They’re ranked for a reason.”