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The University of Utah Athletics
Defense Shines In First Ute Scrimmage
4/5/2003 12:00 AM | Football
April 5, 2003
The first scrimmage under new Ute head coach Urban Meyer was lively and energetic despite miserable weather conditions. Meyer and his staff ran the team through about 40 plays starting from the 35 yard line, before switching to some more specific scrimmage situations, such as a "coming out" drill that had the offense start inside its own 5-yard line, and the red zone offense.
Chilly temperatures and rain mixed with snow made conditions less than ideal, but the enthusiasm and effort on both sides of the ball made for a competitive atmosphere. However, the defense controlled the scrimmage for the most part, which is normal at this time of the year.
"I'd be disappointed if the defense weren't ahead of the offense right now," said Meyer, who went on to explain that this is especially true given the nature of the spread offense he is installing, which is very hard to learn. Overall, Meyer was very pleased, calling it "a good day."
Quarterback Brett Elliott directed the only touchdown drive of the day and it was on the opening series. Elliott and the No. 1 offense marched down the field against the No. 2 defense and Marty Johnson scored on a 1-yard rush.
Elliott, Lance Rice and Alex Smith all tried their hand with the first string offense. Elliott posted the best numbers, completing 4 of 8 passes for 80 yards, with a long pass of 34 yards to freshman Steven Savoy that set up Johnson's TD run. Rice was 3-9 for 38 yards, although his receivers dropped two well thrown balls. Smith was 3-6 for 26 yards.
Savoy led all receivers with 3 catches for 73 yards and had receptions of 34 and 33 yards, the two longest of the day. Rob Gueck had 3 catches for 18 yards and tight end Ben Moa caught 2 passes for 30yards.
Johnson led Utah's run game with 9 carries for 47 yards and a touchdown. Co-starter Brandon Warfield didn't fare as well, rushing just four times for 2 yards. Edwin Benton had 7 rushes for 19 yards and Elliott had 2 carries for 17 yards.
The Ute defense was outstanding, batting down 6 passes attempts, recording 2 sacks and a tackle for loss and causing 3 fumbles. Defenders who stood out included defensive backs Anthony White, whose tremendous hit forced a fumble, Marvin Caruthers (2 pass breakups) and Arnold Parker (1 sack for 2 yards). Lineman Tevita Kemoeatu also had a sack, while Aaron Bryant chipped in a tackle for loss and a pass breakup.
Utah will practice five days this week, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Tuesday's practice is a makeup from last Thursday's snow day and Saturday will feature another scrimmage.
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