Morgan Scalley takes charge of Utah football for 2026 season

Morgan Scalley begins his tenure as head coach of the Utah Utes on Thursday with a season opener against Idaho. Scalley stepped into the role following the departure of longtime head coach Kyle Whittingham, who moved to the Michigan coaching staff after negotiations with Utah for the 2026 season failed. The transition includes new coordinators Kevin McGiven and Colton Swan, alongside a roster that retains quarterback Devon Dampier and several other key contributors. While the program focused on recruiting through the transfer portal to bolster the receiver group and defensive line, analysts remain divided on the team's outlook. Predictions for the Utes' final record in the Big 12 range from 10-2 to 7-5, with experts highlighting the performance of the reconstructed lines as the defining factor for the season.

• 4:53 PMYahoo Sports — What college football pundits predict for Utah’s season