Utah Utes football: Pressure, hopes high at U.
Mike Sorensen
But Utah football coach Kyle Whittingham didn't even flinch.
"That's one of the easiest questions I have to answer," he said.
The question — "Do you feel any pressure going into this season?" — was referring to the fact that the Utes have had high hopes the last three years under Whittingham, but have mostly failed to live up to expectations.
"Every coach feels pressure every year," Whittingham said. "That's the nature of the business."
So the pressure from media guys like me, or boosters and fans who expect his team to win every game and go to a big bowl game, doesn't bother Whittingham?
"The pressure coaches put on themselves is far more than the external pressures," Whittingham said. "If you don't like it, you should get out of the profession."
Whittingham is aware that a lot is expected of his Utes, who have gone 24-14 in his three years at the Utah helm, including three straight bowl victories.
Some close to the program say this is one of the best teams that Whittingham has seen in his 15 years as a Ute coach, right up there with the 12-0 Fiesta Bowl-winning team of 2004.
"On paper we've got some good players, but they still have to produce on the field," Whittingham said. "And we've got to stay healthy."
The Utes return most of their offensive stars, including a trio that is coming back from injuries as well as a nearly intact offensive line. They also have one of the top kickers/punters in the nation in Louie Sakoda and a defense that could be one of the U.'s quickest ever.
A couple of things Whittingham would rather not discuss right now are his team's BCS chances and the already much-anticipated, year-ending game with BYU. His team is focused on the opening game against Michigan on Aug. 30 and just one goal beyond that.
"Our goal is to win the Mountain West Conference," he said. "That's first and foremost. That's eluded us the past three years. That's the one thing we can control."
The Utes can't control where they are ranked. They're starting at No. 28, and from here it's up to the whims of the various voters. They can't control whether they'll make it to a BCS bowl game. Even if they go undefeated, it won't necessarily guarantee them a BCS spot.
Offensively, the Utes should be strong with a healthy Brian Johnson at quarterback, a healthy Matt Asiata sharing time with 1,200-yard rusher Darrell Mack at running back and a healthy Brent Casteel playing receiver and running back. Four of five starting offensive linemen return, as do three excellent receivers.
On defense, the Utes are solid with some question marks at the defensive tackle position.
Recent comments
The most important game is the one you just played. Now who won...
Collie is still open! | Aug. 8, 2008 at 4:24 p.m.
Looks to be a great season! Can't wait for it!
Dave | Aug. 8, 2008 at 2:41 p.m.
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Oregon | Aug. 5, 2008 at 12:11 a.m.
