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The University of Utah Athletics
2022 Football Fall Camp: Quotes
August 16, 2022
Defensive Coordinator and Safeties Coach Morgan Scalley
Takeaways from last Saturday’s scrimmage…
“I loved the effort and the energy, but you could tell with some situational football plays that we were not playing intelligent football. In the red zone, communication is a huge deal, but you could see a ton of improvement in these last two practices. Depth is a big deal, and this will still be a big deal with the schedule we play. You need to have depth at every single position.”
On the linebackers…
“You bet. Coach Swan is a great teacher, and you have a lot of buy-in in that group. Mohamoud [Diabate] is a transfer, but he is a smart and savvy football player. Karene Reid has taken a lot of snaps for us. Lander Barton was here in the spring, and he is the one who will need to get the game experience because there is nothing like playing under the lights. I feel good about this group; they have done a good job creating depth.”
Senior Defensive Tackle Devin Kaufusi
On how the defense is coming together…
“I think there’s definitely a difference from last year. Up front on the defensive line we’ve lost some big guys like Hauati Pututau, Viane Moala and Mika Tafua. But Coach Elliss and Coach Powell have done a great job bringing some continuity and getting everyone on the same page, having that killer mindset and killer instinct on the defensive line.”
On linebacker Lander Barton…
“I love having Lander around. The Bartons, Kaufusis, we’ve been longtime friends. It’s been fun having Lander up here. Feels like a little brother to me, homegrown here in the state. Football family. He comes to work every day with his lunch pale and gets to work. It’s extremely hard to do that right out of high school…he’s been able to excel at his game and become consistent with it.”
On the grind during camp…
“I really do [enjoy it]. It’s really cliché, but being my last year you kind of have that thought every day of ‘this is my last year, I gotta go out there and keep it going.’ Not only that, but as one of the older guys on the team, trying to make the most of it. That’s what I told [my teammates] after practice today, it’d be a shame if we did all this hard work day in and day out, just to come out here, practice and put up bad film. We’re out here, people are sacrificing, people are counting on us. Let’s make the most of it and win some games.”
Sophomore Cornerback Clark Phillips III
On communicating on the field, especially in the red zone…
“You want to make sure [communication] is a focal point when you’re down in a stadium that’s going to be as loud as it’s going to be. You want to make sure guys are communicating as loud as we can, relaying signals and things like that, when it’s going to be loudest.”
On the returning experience of this secondary…
“With everybody healthy, everybody back, pushing each other and competing every single day, I think we have one of the top secondaries. It’s showing every day—we’re getting better. We haven’t arrived yet, but it’s just a beautiful thing when everybody’s got experience, everybody’s coaching each other up. I love it.”
On where he’d like to improve this season…
“Biggest thing for me is tackling. I want to be better all-around. Man coverage, zone coverage. I just want to refine all the parts that I feel like are kind of shoddy in my game.”
On the competition at punt return…
“I want to make plays and help the team win. We had one of the best [return units] I think, in the country last year…I’ve been taking reps, and we have a good collection of guys back there. Devaughn Vele, Money Parks, I’m all for the competition.”
August 15, 2022
Head Coach Kyle Whittingham
On camp as a whole up to this point...
“This team’s worked hard all camp long. I like where we are right now. We’ve got a long ways to go, obviously. But we’re in good position right now [being] 11 days into camp.”
On the offensive line coming together…
“It’s coming along. It’s not a situation where we’re looking for someone who can get it done. We’ve got several guys who can get it done. We’re just trying to see who’s going to be the [guys] that takes ownership of the positions.”
On the backup quarterback situation…
“[Bryson Barnes and Ja’Quinden Jackson] both had outstanding scrimmages. They’re the two guys who are competing. It’s down to them exclusively for the No. 2 guy. We’ll have an answer coming out of the next scrimmage on Saturday.”
On who stood out in the scrimmage…
“Sataoa Laumea was good, Mohamoud Diabate played exceptional. Cole Bishop. Money Parks is really starting to do some good things. That’s been maybe one of the brightest spots of camp is the way [Money] has stepped up and elevated his game.”
On the punt return unit and who could possibly step in for Britain Covey…
“We’ll find out. Devaughn Vele is taking reps back there. Money Parks is taking reps. Jaylen Dixon, Clark Phillips III. You’ve got four or five guys competing. There’s not one guy that’s really just said ‘hey, I’m the guy’ and taken charge. But we’ve got four or five good options and we hope to continue to nail that down.”
Offensive Coordinator and Quarterbacks Coach Andy Ludwig
On the first scrimmage…
"There were a lot of positives coming out of the first scrimmage and we generated some explosive plays and took care of the football."
On the offensive line…
"The group up front is solid. We have a good combination of guys and a couple of spots still up for grabs. They are grinding their way through it and it’s a very competitive situation and I think its bringing out the best in the Utes. We are in a good situation on the offensive line with depth and we are going to be better for it."
Depth in the running back room…
"We need every running back on the roster ready to play and in this offense its such a vocal point on what we do and Jaylon [Glover] adds a different element to the group. To be able to intermix the players within the flow of the game a real benefit to keep the defense off balance."
Senior Wide Receiver Solomon Enis
On his fall camp performance...
"I think its evolution of being here for four years. I wake up every day trying to better myself and be the better version of myself for the team. I am stepping into a larger role and with the offense the way they want to go they are leaning more on myself Devaughn Vele and the other guys in the receivers’ core. I am embracing the role and taking it with a full head of steam."
On expanding the offense…
"Everyone knows when they play us they will have to load up the box and play us in the run game because we have a great run game. Now if they have to spread out or have the one on one matchups on the outside you have to win and to reach our goals that we want to set, we have to throw the ball and be balanced."
Junior Quarterback Cameron Rising
On Saturday’s scrimmage…
“It was a great day. Both sides of the ball got better. Up front, the offensive line got some good work…really putting it all on tape and making sure we’re getting better.”
On development within the offensive line…
“They’re working on getting more chemistry early on and making sure guys know how to work with each other, what tendencies are there, making it easier for everyone. [We communicate with those guys], especially talking game plan, making sure we’re on the same page, what kind of looks we’ll get, what we want to do to those looks.”
On what he’s seen from Bryson Barnes and Ja’Quiden Jackson…
“They’ve been working their tails off. They’ve been putting the work in each and every day and improving. It’s nice to see how they are growing as football players, and really getting comfortable being a year into this offense.
“[My advice to them] is to have fun. It’s just football at the end of the day. You just have to make sure you know your assignments, then you can keep it the same fun type of feel you had back in the day.”
On how wide receiver Money Parks has grown…
“Money’s always been fast and always been quick. But I think he knows how to use his hands and really took the offseason to make sure he’s improving his route-running. He’s getting open almost on will and it’s nice to see that.”
On the Utah defense…
“They’re a great defense. Coach Scalley, Coach Swan and Coach Shah, they’re all working and making sure those guys are flying on all cylinders. Props to the guys—they’re in there, spending extra hours working together so they’re on the same page and getting the looks they want, making sure all their calls are correct. I’m excited to see them play someone else.”
August 10, 2022
Freshman Safety Clayton Isbell
On what he learned at Illinois State that has helped him so far at Utah…
“Definitely taking coaching feedback and trusting the coaches. The coaches here love the players. [They] show love in the way they teach and the way they coach. In my college experience, I’ve learned to trust coaches and trust the process.”
On how camp is going…
“I’ve been taking camp day by day. I’ve been learning the playbook every day, getting extra film in and getting extra work in on the field. Just trying to do my thing.”
On teammates who been helping him settle in since he arrived…
“All the safeties. They all have knowledge because they’ve all been here so long. Definitely Cole Bishop and R.J. Hubert as well. Any time I have questions or mess up, they’re there to correct me and pick me up.”
On how the safety room is looking headed into 2022…
“The safety room is looking really good. There’s a lot of experience. [Some guys] may be young…but on the line, there’s some time played in games, some experience, knowing the defensive calls. We’re looking pretty good.” Redshirt Freshman Linebacker Ethan Calvert
On his progression back from injury…
“Every practice, my knee is starting to feel better. Just brushing off the rust a little bit and starting to know the plays a little more. Just getting more comfortable out there. I was out last season, and I didn’t play my senior year [of high school] because of COVID. It feels good just getting back into the groove of things.”
August 8, 2022
Head Coach Kyle Whittingham
On how Monday's practice went...
“It was a bit of a slow start. Coming off a day off, sometimes that happens. It took us a minute to get in the swing of things, but we finished strong. Overall it was a positive day. It’s day 5, so we’re getting into the heart of the grind. The game is still far out there—we’ve got to stay focused, stay mentally tough, just continue to grind. That’s what it is right now.”
On the backup quarterback battle…
“It looks good. We’re not going to make a decision before the first scrimmage. But Ja'Quinden Jackson is looking good, Bryson Barnes is doing a good job. Nate Johnson is really looking good…we’ve got a lot of good candidates, there’s just [not separation] right now. Hopefully after this scrimmage there will be.”
On what the more pressing spots are right now…
“As far as the starters, getting the offensive line solidified and working together [is up there], which we’re very close to doing. Backup quarterback is a focal point. Also, the secondary depth and making sure we have the secondary sorted out.”
On the punting situation…
“[I feel] much, much better. We’re doing a much better job punting the football. Jack Bouwmeester is really hitting the ball well. He has a strong leg. We should be much improved in that area.”
On the depth of the receiving corps…
“It’s coming along. We’ve got the four or five proven guys that have been here a while, then four or five guys that are brand new. That’s another area of emphasis is trying to get those young guys sorted out and seeing who’s going to be among those seven or eight guys that travel with us.”
Senior Tight End Brant Kuithe
On the Utes’ top two returning receivers being tight ends…
“It’s awesome. Tight ends are a big part of our offense. But we also have guys stepping up on the outside—Devaughn Vele, Solomon Enis. Lot of young guys too, Makai Cope, Money Parks, freshman Sidney Mbanasor.”
On the caliber of tight ends among the Utes and how the tight ends fit into this offense...
“It starts with the offensive line, the quarterback. Everyone plays a role in this offense. A big part of it is tight ends because we move around so much and have a lot of areas that we can establish the run game and pass game. It’s great to be in [this offense].”
On Dalton Kincaid…
“Dalton can stretch the field. He can go up and catch the ball…we just complement each other in both the [run game and pass game] and try to help each other improve in all aspects.”
Junior Wide Receiver Tiquan Gilmore
On how he’s been settling in…
“It’s been smooth…Coach Bumphis makes sure everyone is comfortable in the room. We go over film a lot. Us players, we talk a lot about motivating each other and encouraging each other to be great on and off the field, watching film, everything. It’s been great.”
On differences from the JUCO ranks…
“I feel like the competition level [is different]. At the junior college level, you get some kids who didn’t play, some who take it lightly. Here, everybody is a superstar. Everybody is trying to play. Everybody is trying to be that top dog. [Utah] is a place I love to be.”
August 5, 2022
Defensive Coordinator and Safeties Coach Morgan Scalley
On what he’s seen in camp so far…
“We’re looking for not incremental, but substantial improvement, particularly in effort—running to the ball. So we’ll see. Never as good as it seems, never as bad as it seems. But I like the energy. Also, we don’t have pads on [yet]. It’s tough to determine the defense you are without pads. But I like the energy. We’ve got athleticism and depth at every position group. We’ll see, we’ll put the pads on and find out.”
On the balance of newcomers and returners…
“At most positions. You’ve got a couple positions with newcomers; you’ve got newcomers at safety, couple newcomers at linebacker with Lander Barton and Mohamoud Diabate. Couple new additions who have been in the program; Connor O’Toole has moved a position. The leadership has shown up. You can tell there’s been a lot done without [the coaches]. That’s how you can tell the difference between an OK team and a good team and whether or not you have a shot. It seems like they’ve done a great job.”
On what Mohamoud Diabate has shown so far in camp…
“Athleticism, speed, energy. He is a savvy football player. Bends the right way. He’s not at big as Devin Lloyd, but he’s long, fast and quick. You can tell he was coached up well at Florida. We’re fortunate to have him.”
On Clayton Isbell…
“He covers a lot of ground. The more he understands our scheme, the faster he’s going to play. With that length he poses some problems in man-to-man coverage against tight ends and length in the post. He’s shown up and done a nice job. He’s a guy you can coach hard too. Sometimes with the newcomers, you coach them hard and they look at you like you have 10 heads. He’s another kid that has been coached well.”
On the Guardian Caps being worn by the Utes in camp…
“Anything to keep our players as fresh and healthy [as possible]—that’s the biggest thing. We’re a physical football team. The more that we can keep [our players] healthy and away from head injuries, we’re going to do everything we can. That’s a credit to Coach Whittingham and our medical staff going through the process of vetting that out. The NFL is doing it…it’s been good.”
Sophomore Safety Cole Bishop
On how comfortable he is this year from last year…
“I would say a lot because of getting in games last year and spring ball. The more and more snaps you get the more comfortable you in game and or practice.”
On what he’s worked on this past offseason…
“I need to improve on my man coverage skills. We didn’t run a ton a lot of man coverage last year and previously in Utah history we have been known to run a lot of man coverage. I focused on that and film study to make sure I know the defense as best as I can and not just my position and other positions as well.”
Sophomore Defensive End Van Fillinger
On the addition of Gabe Reid…
“Gabe is a good player and he does everything the right way. He has been doing everything the right way based on his attitude, he shows up positive, is always asking questions and finding ways to get better. It is good to have a leader like that, that knows what to expect and has been through a season before. He provides us with seniority.”
On the defensive ends as a group…
“We have a lot of young guys right now and something that usually stands out right away is they are very athletic because they come out of high school a little lighter and a little lean. Right now we are working with our players on getting their technique down. They have a lot of potential with a lot of explosiveness and they have a good pass rush.”
August 3, 2022
Head Coach Kyle Whittingham
Opening Statement
“For the first day it went really good. The offense has a lot of returning guys, at quarterback in particular. Defensively we were moving around well. The new additions, [among them] Mohamoud Diabate, Lander Barton, there’s some really good additions that will be a factor for us on defense.”
On opening camp with this amount of returning experience…
“It was very evident that they spent a lot of time together on their own this summer. Today was more like a practice eight or practice nine feel, as far as the lack of mental mistakes and how smooth things went.”
On the leadership qualities of quarterback Cameron Rising…
“First of all, he’s one of the hardest workers on the football team, if not the hardest. You can talk about it, but you have to be about it. His performance is outstanding, his film study, everything. There’s no weakness in Cam Rising right now. He’s doing everything right coming off an outstanding year. We’re fortunate to have him on our team.”
On who stands out among the wide receivers…
“Devaughn Vele is target No. 1 right now. He had an outstanding day today. Solomon Enis has played a lot of good football for us. We also have five or six new guys that haven’t quite sorted themselves out yet with just one practice, but all have showed that they have potential. We’ll see how those guys sort out.”
On the offensive line…
“The offensive line is solid. We have 17 guys in camp. Everybody is healthy. Jaren Kump looked good today—he’ll be lining up at right tackle for us.”
Offensive Coordinator and Quarterbacks Coach Andy Ludwig
On getting back on the field with veterans returning…
“Yes, it is easier when you have veterans in their fourth year in the same system with very few changes in the system. There were a few tweaks and modifications coming into the season, but nothing those guys haven’t been exposed to. You have to be careful because you don’t want to skip the fundamentals and dive too much into the scheme.”
On Cam Rising throwing the deep ball…
“Most of our work today was in the red zone, but I see more zip on the ball. We didn’t get a good look at the deep throws being in that field position, but he has always had a lot of confidence in those fade throws. We will get to the middle of the field in a couple of days and air it out.”
On the running back situation…
“It is an open competition, and it’s a good group, with Tavion Thomas, Micah Bernard, Jaylon Glover, and Chris Curry. We all know what Tavion Thomas is all about and what kind of weapon he can be.”
On his impression of the newcomers…
“There is a lot of athleticism and a lot of length. We have some tall long guys that can run. They are drinking water through a fire hose trying to get lined up, much less run the appropriate route, but I am fired up about the young wide receiver core.”
On the offensive line...
“The depth we have is outstanding. Coach Harding will get the best five in the right spots, and I am confident about that. All those guys we are counting on have played significant snaps, and I feel really good about the depth on the line.”
Junior Quarterback Cameron Rising
On his approach and philosophy leading this offense…
“One day at a time. Just keep trying to improve. If I handle my 20 square feet, the rest will fall into place.”
On getting back to the structure of formal practices…
“It’s always fun when you can get back out on the field with the guys and having fun playing ball again.”
On the coaching staff…
“Absolutely. To have Coach Whitt is unlike most programs in the country. There’s very few that have that type of stability, that man that’s going to run the ship the way it should be run.”
On what he would consider a successful camp…
“We just need to continue to improve and get to that feeling of being comfortable with each other. Just making sure everyone’s meshing with each other. If we do those things, I think we’ll be ready for the season.”
Senior Tight End Dalton Kincaid
On being back for camp and preparing for the season…
“It’s exciting. Knowing it’s my last Fall camp, it gives you that extra burst of energy. I feel like coming in for freshman camp was yesterday. It’s a weird feeling, but it’s exciting.”
On the amount of returning experience on offense…
“Just knowing that chemistry is there from last year, and being able to build on it during the offseason is huge. Knowing that it’s continuing to grow during Fall camp is exciting.”
On what made the offense so potent in 2021…
“I think the easy answer is Cam Rising. You saw what he did as soon as he got in there—just went on a roll. You have to give credit to the [offensive line] too. We go as they go.”
Defensive Coordinator and Safeties Coach Morgan Scalley
Takeaways from last Saturday’s scrimmage…
“I loved the effort and the energy, but you could tell with some situational football plays that we were not playing intelligent football. In the red zone, communication is a huge deal, but you could see a ton of improvement in these last two practices. Depth is a big deal, and this will still be a big deal with the schedule we play. You need to have depth at every single position.”
On the linebackers…
“You bet. Coach Swan is a great teacher, and you have a lot of buy-in in that group. Mohamoud [Diabate] is a transfer, but he is a smart and savvy football player. Karene Reid has taken a lot of snaps for us. Lander Barton was here in the spring, and he is the one who will need to get the game experience because there is nothing like playing under the lights. I feel good about this group; they have done a good job creating depth.”
Senior Defensive Tackle Devin Kaufusi
On how the defense is coming together…
“I think there’s definitely a difference from last year. Up front on the defensive line we’ve lost some big guys like Hauati Pututau, Viane Moala and Mika Tafua. But Coach Elliss and Coach Powell have done a great job bringing some continuity and getting everyone on the same page, having that killer mindset and killer instinct on the defensive line.”
On linebacker Lander Barton…
“I love having Lander around. The Bartons, Kaufusis, we’ve been longtime friends. It’s been fun having Lander up here. Feels like a little brother to me, homegrown here in the state. Football family. He comes to work every day with his lunch pale and gets to work. It’s extremely hard to do that right out of high school…he’s been able to excel at his game and become consistent with it.”
On the grind during camp…
“I really do [enjoy it]. It’s really cliché, but being my last year you kind of have that thought every day of ‘this is my last year, I gotta go out there and keep it going.’ Not only that, but as one of the older guys on the team, trying to make the most of it. That’s what I told [my teammates] after practice today, it’d be a shame if we did all this hard work day in and day out, just to come out here, practice and put up bad film. We’re out here, people are sacrificing, people are counting on us. Let’s make the most of it and win some games.”
Sophomore Cornerback Clark Phillips III
On communicating on the field, especially in the red zone…
“You want to make sure [communication] is a focal point when you’re down in a stadium that’s going to be as loud as it’s going to be. You want to make sure guys are communicating as loud as we can, relaying signals and things like that, when it’s going to be loudest.”
On the returning experience of this secondary…
“With everybody healthy, everybody back, pushing each other and competing every single day, I think we have one of the top secondaries. It’s showing every day—we’re getting better. We haven’t arrived yet, but it’s just a beautiful thing when everybody’s got experience, everybody’s coaching each other up. I love it.”
On where he’d like to improve this season…
“Biggest thing for me is tackling. I want to be better all-around. Man coverage, zone coverage. I just want to refine all the parts that I feel like are kind of shoddy in my game.”
On the competition at punt return…
“I want to make plays and help the team win. We had one of the best [return units] I think, in the country last year…I’ve been taking reps, and we have a good collection of guys back there. Devaughn Vele, Money Parks, I’m all for the competition.”
August 15, 2022
Head Coach Kyle Whittingham
On camp as a whole up to this point...
“This team’s worked hard all camp long. I like where we are right now. We’ve got a long ways to go, obviously. But we’re in good position right now [being] 11 days into camp.”
On the offensive line coming together…
“It’s coming along. It’s not a situation where we’re looking for someone who can get it done. We’ve got several guys who can get it done. We’re just trying to see who’s going to be the [guys] that takes ownership of the positions.”
On the backup quarterback situation…
“[Bryson Barnes and Ja’Quinden Jackson] both had outstanding scrimmages. They’re the two guys who are competing. It’s down to them exclusively for the No. 2 guy. We’ll have an answer coming out of the next scrimmage on Saturday.”
On who stood out in the scrimmage…
“Sataoa Laumea was good, Mohamoud Diabate played exceptional. Cole Bishop. Money Parks is really starting to do some good things. That’s been maybe one of the brightest spots of camp is the way [Money] has stepped up and elevated his game.”
On the punt return unit and who could possibly step in for Britain Covey…
“We’ll find out. Devaughn Vele is taking reps back there. Money Parks is taking reps. Jaylen Dixon, Clark Phillips III. You’ve got four or five guys competing. There’s not one guy that’s really just said ‘hey, I’m the guy’ and taken charge. But we’ve got four or five good options and we hope to continue to nail that down.”
Offensive Coordinator and Quarterbacks Coach Andy Ludwig
On the first scrimmage…
"There were a lot of positives coming out of the first scrimmage and we generated some explosive plays and took care of the football."
On the offensive line…
"The group up front is solid. We have a good combination of guys and a couple of spots still up for grabs. They are grinding their way through it and it’s a very competitive situation and I think its bringing out the best in the Utes. We are in a good situation on the offensive line with depth and we are going to be better for it."
Depth in the running back room…
"We need every running back on the roster ready to play and in this offense its such a vocal point on what we do and Jaylon [Glover] adds a different element to the group. To be able to intermix the players within the flow of the game a real benefit to keep the defense off balance."
Senior Wide Receiver Solomon Enis
On his fall camp performance...
"I think its evolution of being here for four years. I wake up every day trying to better myself and be the better version of myself for the team. I am stepping into a larger role and with the offense the way they want to go they are leaning more on myself Devaughn Vele and the other guys in the receivers’ core. I am embracing the role and taking it with a full head of steam."
On expanding the offense…
"Everyone knows when they play us they will have to load up the box and play us in the run game because we have a great run game. Now if they have to spread out or have the one on one matchups on the outside you have to win and to reach our goals that we want to set, we have to throw the ball and be balanced."
Junior Quarterback Cameron Rising
On Saturday’s scrimmage…
“It was a great day. Both sides of the ball got better. Up front, the offensive line got some good work…really putting it all on tape and making sure we’re getting better.”
On development within the offensive line…
“They’re working on getting more chemistry early on and making sure guys know how to work with each other, what tendencies are there, making it easier for everyone. [We communicate with those guys], especially talking game plan, making sure we’re on the same page, what kind of looks we’ll get, what we want to do to those looks.”
On what he’s seen from Bryson Barnes and Ja’Quiden Jackson…
“They’ve been working their tails off. They’ve been putting the work in each and every day and improving. It’s nice to see how they are growing as football players, and really getting comfortable being a year into this offense.
“[My advice to them] is to have fun. It’s just football at the end of the day. You just have to make sure you know your assignments, then you can keep it the same fun type of feel you had back in the day.”
On how wide receiver Money Parks has grown…
“Money’s always been fast and always been quick. But I think he knows how to use his hands and really took the offseason to make sure he’s improving his route-running. He’s getting open almost on will and it’s nice to see that.”
On the Utah defense…
“They’re a great defense. Coach Scalley, Coach Swan and Coach Shah, they’re all working and making sure those guys are flying on all cylinders. Props to the guys—they’re in there, spending extra hours working together so they’re on the same page and getting the looks they want, making sure all their calls are correct. I’m excited to see them play someone else.”
August 10, 2022
Freshman Safety Clayton Isbell
On what he learned at Illinois State that has helped him so far at Utah…
“Definitely taking coaching feedback and trusting the coaches. The coaches here love the players. [They] show love in the way they teach and the way they coach. In my college experience, I’ve learned to trust coaches and trust the process.”
On how camp is going…
“I’ve been taking camp day by day. I’ve been learning the playbook every day, getting extra film in and getting extra work in on the field. Just trying to do my thing.”
On teammates who been helping him settle in since he arrived…
“All the safeties. They all have knowledge because they’ve all been here so long. Definitely Cole Bishop and R.J. Hubert as well. Any time I have questions or mess up, they’re there to correct me and pick me up.”
On how the safety room is looking headed into 2022…
“The safety room is looking really good. There’s a lot of experience. [Some guys] may be young…but on the line, there’s some time played in games, some experience, knowing the defensive calls. We’re looking pretty good.” Redshirt Freshman Linebacker Ethan Calvert
On his progression back from injury…
“Every practice, my knee is starting to feel better. Just brushing off the rust a little bit and starting to know the plays a little more. Just getting more comfortable out there. I was out last season, and I didn’t play my senior year [of high school] because of COVID. It feels good just getting back into the groove of things.”
August 8, 2022
Head Coach Kyle Whittingham
On how Monday's practice went...
“It was a bit of a slow start. Coming off a day off, sometimes that happens. It took us a minute to get in the swing of things, but we finished strong. Overall it was a positive day. It’s day 5, so we’re getting into the heart of the grind. The game is still far out there—we’ve got to stay focused, stay mentally tough, just continue to grind. That’s what it is right now.”
On the backup quarterback battle…
“It looks good. We’re not going to make a decision before the first scrimmage. But Ja'Quinden Jackson is looking good, Bryson Barnes is doing a good job. Nate Johnson is really looking good…we’ve got a lot of good candidates, there’s just [not separation] right now. Hopefully after this scrimmage there will be.”
On what the more pressing spots are right now…
“As far as the starters, getting the offensive line solidified and working together [is up there], which we’re very close to doing. Backup quarterback is a focal point. Also, the secondary depth and making sure we have the secondary sorted out.”
On the punting situation…
“[I feel] much, much better. We’re doing a much better job punting the football. Jack Bouwmeester is really hitting the ball well. He has a strong leg. We should be much improved in that area.”
On the depth of the receiving corps…
“It’s coming along. We’ve got the four or five proven guys that have been here a while, then four or five guys that are brand new. That’s another area of emphasis is trying to get those young guys sorted out and seeing who’s going to be among those seven or eight guys that travel with us.”
Senior Tight End Brant Kuithe
On the Utes’ top two returning receivers being tight ends…
“It’s awesome. Tight ends are a big part of our offense. But we also have guys stepping up on the outside—Devaughn Vele, Solomon Enis. Lot of young guys too, Makai Cope, Money Parks, freshman Sidney Mbanasor.”
On the caliber of tight ends among the Utes and how the tight ends fit into this offense...
“It starts with the offensive line, the quarterback. Everyone plays a role in this offense. A big part of it is tight ends because we move around so much and have a lot of areas that we can establish the run game and pass game. It’s great to be in [this offense].”
On Dalton Kincaid…
“Dalton can stretch the field. He can go up and catch the ball…we just complement each other in both the [run game and pass game] and try to help each other improve in all aspects.”
Junior Wide Receiver Tiquan Gilmore
On how he’s been settling in…
“It’s been smooth…Coach Bumphis makes sure everyone is comfortable in the room. We go over film a lot. Us players, we talk a lot about motivating each other and encouraging each other to be great on and off the field, watching film, everything. It’s been great.”
On differences from the JUCO ranks…
“I feel like the competition level [is different]. At the junior college level, you get some kids who didn’t play, some who take it lightly. Here, everybody is a superstar. Everybody is trying to play. Everybody is trying to be that top dog. [Utah] is a place I love to be.”
August 5, 2022
Defensive Coordinator and Safeties Coach Morgan Scalley
On what he’s seen in camp so far…
“We’re looking for not incremental, but substantial improvement, particularly in effort—running to the ball. So we’ll see. Never as good as it seems, never as bad as it seems. But I like the energy. Also, we don’t have pads on [yet]. It’s tough to determine the defense you are without pads. But I like the energy. We’ve got athleticism and depth at every position group. We’ll see, we’ll put the pads on and find out.”
On the balance of newcomers and returners…
“At most positions. You’ve got a couple positions with newcomers; you’ve got newcomers at safety, couple newcomers at linebacker with Lander Barton and Mohamoud Diabate. Couple new additions who have been in the program; Connor O’Toole has moved a position. The leadership has shown up. You can tell there’s been a lot done without [the coaches]. That’s how you can tell the difference between an OK team and a good team and whether or not you have a shot. It seems like they’ve done a great job.”
On what Mohamoud Diabate has shown so far in camp…
“Athleticism, speed, energy. He is a savvy football player. Bends the right way. He’s not at big as Devin Lloyd, but he’s long, fast and quick. You can tell he was coached up well at Florida. We’re fortunate to have him.”
On Clayton Isbell…
“He covers a lot of ground. The more he understands our scheme, the faster he’s going to play. With that length he poses some problems in man-to-man coverage against tight ends and length in the post. He’s shown up and done a nice job. He’s a guy you can coach hard too. Sometimes with the newcomers, you coach them hard and they look at you like you have 10 heads. He’s another kid that has been coached well.”
On the Guardian Caps being worn by the Utes in camp…
“Anything to keep our players as fresh and healthy [as possible]—that’s the biggest thing. We’re a physical football team. The more that we can keep [our players] healthy and away from head injuries, we’re going to do everything we can. That’s a credit to Coach Whittingham and our medical staff going through the process of vetting that out. The NFL is doing it…it’s been good.”
Sophomore Safety Cole Bishop
On how comfortable he is this year from last year…
“I would say a lot because of getting in games last year and spring ball. The more and more snaps you get the more comfortable you in game and or practice.”
On what he’s worked on this past offseason…
“I need to improve on my man coverage skills. We didn’t run a ton a lot of man coverage last year and previously in Utah history we have been known to run a lot of man coverage. I focused on that and film study to make sure I know the defense as best as I can and not just my position and other positions as well.”
Sophomore Defensive End Van Fillinger
On the addition of Gabe Reid…
“Gabe is a good player and he does everything the right way. He has been doing everything the right way based on his attitude, he shows up positive, is always asking questions and finding ways to get better. It is good to have a leader like that, that knows what to expect and has been through a season before. He provides us with seniority.”
On the defensive ends as a group…
“We have a lot of young guys right now and something that usually stands out right away is they are very athletic because they come out of high school a little lighter and a little lean. Right now we are working with our players on getting their technique down. They have a lot of potential with a lot of explosiveness and they have a good pass rush.”
August 3, 2022
Head Coach Kyle Whittingham
Opening Statement
“For the first day it went really good. The offense has a lot of returning guys, at quarterback in particular. Defensively we were moving around well. The new additions, [among them] Mohamoud Diabate, Lander Barton, there’s some really good additions that will be a factor for us on defense.”
On opening camp with this amount of returning experience…
“It was very evident that they spent a lot of time together on their own this summer. Today was more like a practice eight or practice nine feel, as far as the lack of mental mistakes and how smooth things went.”
On the leadership qualities of quarterback Cameron Rising…
“First of all, he’s one of the hardest workers on the football team, if not the hardest. You can talk about it, but you have to be about it. His performance is outstanding, his film study, everything. There’s no weakness in Cam Rising right now. He’s doing everything right coming off an outstanding year. We’re fortunate to have him on our team.”
On who stands out among the wide receivers…
“Devaughn Vele is target No. 1 right now. He had an outstanding day today. Solomon Enis has played a lot of good football for us. We also have five or six new guys that haven’t quite sorted themselves out yet with just one practice, but all have showed that they have potential. We’ll see how those guys sort out.”
On the offensive line…
“The offensive line is solid. We have 17 guys in camp. Everybody is healthy. Jaren Kump looked good today—he’ll be lining up at right tackle for us.”
Offensive Coordinator and Quarterbacks Coach Andy Ludwig
On getting back on the field with veterans returning…
“Yes, it is easier when you have veterans in their fourth year in the same system with very few changes in the system. There were a few tweaks and modifications coming into the season, but nothing those guys haven’t been exposed to. You have to be careful because you don’t want to skip the fundamentals and dive too much into the scheme.”
On Cam Rising throwing the deep ball…
“Most of our work today was in the red zone, but I see more zip on the ball. We didn’t get a good look at the deep throws being in that field position, but he has always had a lot of confidence in those fade throws. We will get to the middle of the field in a couple of days and air it out.”
On the running back situation…
“It is an open competition, and it’s a good group, with Tavion Thomas, Micah Bernard, Jaylon Glover, and Chris Curry. We all know what Tavion Thomas is all about and what kind of weapon he can be.”
On his impression of the newcomers…
“There is a lot of athleticism and a lot of length. We have some tall long guys that can run. They are drinking water through a fire hose trying to get lined up, much less run the appropriate route, but I am fired up about the young wide receiver core.”
On the offensive line...
“The depth we have is outstanding. Coach Harding will get the best five in the right spots, and I am confident about that. All those guys we are counting on have played significant snaps, and I feel really good about the depth on the line.”
Junior Quarterback Cameron Rising
On his approach and philosophy leading this offense…
“One day at a time. Just keep trying to improve. If I handle my 20 square feet, the rest will fall into place.”
On getting back to the structure of formal practices…
“It’s always fun when you can get back out on the field with the guys and having fun playing ball again.”
On the coaching staff…
“Absolutely. To have Coach Whitt is unlike most programs in the country. There’s very few that have that type of stability, that man that’s going to run the ship the way it should be run.”
On what he would consider a successful camp…
“We just need to continue to improve and get to that feeling of being comfortable with each other. Just making sure everyone’s meshing with each other. If we do those things, I think we’ll be ready for the season.”
Senior Tight End Dalton Kincaid
On being back for camp and preparing for the season…
“It’s exciting. Knowing it’s my last Fall camp, it gives you that extra burst of energy. I feel like coming in for freshman camp was yesterday. It’s a weird feeling, but it’s exciting.”
On the amount of returning experience on offense…
“Just knowing that chemistry is there from last year, and being able to build on it during the offseason is huge. Knowing that it’s continuing to grow during Fall camp is exciting.”
On what made the offense so potent in 2021…
“I think the easy answer is Cam Rising. You saw what he did as soon as he got in there—just went on a roll. You have to give credit to the [offensive line] too. We go as they go.”