Utah
Three takeaways from No. 12 Utah’s win over Southern Utah
No. 12 Utah kicked off the 2024 season in impressive fashion with stars Cam Rising and Brant Kuithe returning to make strong statements in a commanding 49-0 victory over Southern Utah. The Utes delivered the expected result, showcasing their dominance while fine-tuning their game plan. As the team now sets its sights on a more challenging test against the Baylor Bears, here are three takeaways from Thursday night’s performance.
Utes run game shows promise
One of the most encouraging signs for Utah was the performance of their running game. While no single rusher stood out — the leading rusher managed just 34 yards — the team still compiled 185 rushing yards. This collective effort underscores a promising ground attack, one that has clearly benefited from improvements along the offensive line. The push from the line was solid, creating enough space for running backs to find creases and utilize cutback lanes, a notable improvement from last season when running room was often hard to come by.
However, for the rushing attack to be sustainable throughout the season, Utah will need one or more backs to emerge as go-to options. The distribution of carries worked against Southern Utah, but consistency from key players will be essential as the Utes face tougher defenses. The balance of an effective passing game, led by Rising and Kuithe, seemed to open up more opportunities for the ground game, setting a positive tone for the season ahead.
Caleb Lohner’s impactful debut
Caleb Lohner, a converted basketball player, made a notable debut for Utah. Playing significant snaps, Lohner showcased his athleticism and versatility, particularly with his acrobatic, contested touchdown catch late in the game. The play, which appeared to be a back shoulder throw, demonstrated Lohner’s excellent hand-eye coordination and physicality, qualities that will make him a valuable asset in the tight end rotation.
Lohner’s route-running, physical presence, and involvement in both the passing and running game stood out, highlighting his potential to become a key contributor. His performance suggests that he could be a significant part of Utah’s offensive plans this season, especially as he continues to develop his skills on the football field.
Keanu Tanuvasa’s disruptive presence
Defensive lineman Keanu Tanuvasa emerged as a potential difference-maker for the Utes. While he didn’t register tackles behind the line of scrimmage, his ability to penetrate the backfield and disrupt plays was evident. Tanuvasa’s quick first step and knack for beating offensive linemen allowed him to create pressure consistently, forcing Southern Utah to adjust their game plan with quick passes to avoid his rush.
Though Tanuvasa missed a few opportunities to make game-changing plays, his consistent backfield presence was a highlight of Utah’s defensive effort. As the Utes prepare for stiffer competition, Tanuvasa’s disruptiveness could prove crucial. If he can maintain this level of play, he will be a key figure in Utah’s defense, creating headaches for opposing offenses throughout the season.
Utah welcomes Baylor into Rice-Eccles Stadium next Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET.
Utah
First-of-its-kind green dinosaur skeleton recovered in Utah could be new species, says National Geographic
A new dinosaur species has potentially been recovered after the reconstruction of its remains.
The first-of-its-kind green dinosaur fossil was discovered in southeastern Utah, and was reassembled by a team from the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County (NHMLAC).
The 150-million-year-old dinosaur was first spotted in 2007, according to a report from National Geographic, among a “logjam” of various dinosaur bones belonging to diplodocus, stegosaurus, allosaurus, camarasaurus and other species.
DINOSAUR QUIZ! HOW MUCH DO YOU KNOW ABOUT THESE PREHISTORIC CREATURES?
The bones that were collected for reconstruction do not belong to one single dinosaur, NatGeo reported.
Instead, they’re a combination of parts from two or more prehistoric reptiles of the same species found at the site.
The identity of this species has yet to be determined, as it may be new to science — but experts believe it belongs to the genus diplodocus due to its characteristic long neck and “four sturdy legs.”
NEW DINOSAUR SPECIES SIMILAR TO T. REX FOUND IN ASIA
In the meantime, the dinosaur has been named “Gnatalie” by excavation team members, as there was an influx of gnats during that first summer at the dig site, NatGeo said.
For more Lifestyle articles, visit www.foxnews.com/lifestyle
From the site where the fossils were prepped, the bones were sent to Research Casting International (RCI) in Canada — one of the world’s largest providers of museum technical services — for casting and mounting.
Gnatalie then made its way to its new display in Los Angeles.
The sauropod, a large herbivorous dinosaur known for its long neck and tail, is the most complete skeleton of its kind on the West Coast, according to NatGeo.
CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER
The dinosaur stands 75 feet long — almost twice the length of the average city bus — and weighs about five tons.
It’s also the first green dino skeleton to be displayed worldwide.
Its unusual green color occurred after volcanic activity from 80 to 50 million years ago made it hot enough for a new green mineral to change the color of the bones, NatGeo reported.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
In November, the multi-million-dollar reconstruction will be the star attraction of a new wing of the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County.
Utah
Utah Utes all-time greatest football players: No. 19 Zane Beadles
Zane Beadles, a standout offensive lineman, had an illustrious career at the University of Utah from 2006 to 2009. His tenure at Utah was marked by his exceptional skill, leadership, and durability, making him one of the most celebrated linemen in the program’s history.
Beadles arrived at Utah in 2006 as a three-star recruit out of Hillcrest High School in Sandy, Utah. Initially, he played sparingly as a freshman, but by his sophomore year in 2007, he had become a key figure on the offensive line. Starting every game, Beadles quickly established himself as a versatile and reliable lineman. He initially played at right tackle but moved to left tackle during his junior and senior years, showcasing his adaptability and prowess in protecting the quarterback’s blindside.
One of the highlights of Beadles’ career at Utah was being a part of the 2008 Utah Utes football team, which went undefeated and achieved a historic victory over Alabama in the Sugar Bowl. The win solidified Utah’s place as a top team in the country and marked one of the most memorable seasons in the program’s history. Beadles was a key component of that team, anchoring an offensive line that played a crucial role in the team’s success. His protection allowed quarterback Brian Johnson to thrive, leading the Utes to their 13-0 season.
Throughout his collegiate career, Beadles earned numerous accolades. He was named to the All-Mountain West Conference team three times and received first-team honors in 2008 and 2009. In his senior year, he was also recognized as a consensus All-American, highlighting his status as one of the nation’s premier offensive linemen.
Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Beadles was known for his leadership and work ethic. He served as a team captain during his senior season and was a respected figure in the locker room. His commitment to excellence extended beyond football, as he was also a standout in the classroom, earning Academic All-Mountain West honors.
Beadles’ success at Utah paved the way for a career in the NFL. He was selected in the second round of the 2010 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos, marking the beginning of a professional career that would span several seasons.
Beadles’ legacy at the University of Utah remains strong. His impact on the field, combined with his leadership and academic success, made him one of the program’s most respected figures.
Utah
Utah Hockey Club's Alex Kerfoot Talks Season One Opportunities
SALT LAKE CITY – It’s been an offseason like no other for the NHL’s newest team as they unexpectedly moved from Arizona to Utah seemingly overnight. In addition to a new city, there’s also a handful of new faces on the Utah Hockey Club roster and new opportunities for some of the organizations young players. According to veteran center Alexander Kerfoot, this collection of new beginnings will make for a memorable first season in Salt Lake City.
Utah Hockey Club’s First Season
Less than six months ago, Smith Entertainment Group made history as they acquired an NHL team that would immediately call Utah home. Now, with just 40 days until opening night and less than a few weeks until training camp gets underway, Kerfoot is looking forward to this unique opportunity to play for the club in its first season.
“It’s just excitement,” Kerfoot said. “This is something where in 20 years we’ll look back and be like, we were a part of the team that played the first season in Utah. That’s something you don’t want to take for granted…We’re coming to a great city with a great organization. Ownership has done an unbelievable job.”
Sergachev, Marino, Cole & Stenlund
While the 2024-25 campaign will be the first in Utah for each player, the organization added a collection of few new faces including Mikhail Sergachev, John Marino, Ian Cole and Kevin Stenlund to lift their ceiling and take the next step in the rebuild.
With these new additions, three of which have all lifted Lord Stanley, the team is certainly on the cusp of a playoff spot and very well could surprise the league in year one.
“Three of them have won cups, they bring significant experience and have played different roles on different teams. So, that winning mindset, winning culture I think is going to be really good for us. Guys who have proven that they’ve done it before and been on teams that have done it before is going to be really valuable,” Kerfoot explained.
“And then obviously those defensemen bring another element to our group,” He added. “Sergachev has got the tools to be one of the best defensemen in the league. He’s going to make an immediate impact. I’ve also played with John Marino before. I know him pretty well, I’m a huge fan of his game. Really good puck mover, really mobile, the game comes easy to him and he’s going to be a really good player for us.”
Kerfoot also shared that the team’s mindset should be set on pushing for the playoffs with this group, especially with how the team improved this offseason and he’s willing to contribute in whatever way the coaches see fit to help them achieve that goal.
Logan Cooley and Dylan Guenther’s Can Take A Leap This Season
In addition to the team bringing in some new faces to help improve the team in key areas, this season presents a huge opportunity for guys like Logan Cooley and Dylan Guenther.
A season ago, Cooley burst onto the scene with 20 goals and 24 assists which resulted in him being named to the NHL’s All-Rookie Team. As for Guenther, once he was called up, he scorched the nets alongside Cooley with 18 goals and 17 assists in just 45 appearances.
So, what kind of leap will those players take this season? Kerfoot foresees both players taking a sizable leap this year and being key players for the Utah Hockey Club for years to come.
“From the time he got called up, Guenther was an impact player. Right now, he’s got one of the best shots in the league. Just his release is special, he can beat goalies clean, there’s not many guys who can beat goalies from the outside in the league and so he’s got that element to his game. But he’s a pretty complete player for a young guy. So, he’s going to be a really good player for a long time,” Kerfoot explained.
“Cooley has got game breaking ability to him,” He continued. “You saw it. You see flashes of it here and there last year. He’s really going to take another step and be more dynamic this year. He’s one of those special, unique guys. He skates so well, his edgework is unbelievable, his ability to handle the puck and make plays. His confidence on the ice is special too. For both those guys, there’s no ceiling on what they can do. They’re both going to take jumps and so it’ll be exciting to watch them this year and in the coming years.”
Kerfoot’s Impact
As for himself and like he mentioned, Kerfoot will fulfill whatever role is asked of him. A season ago, he was a top five points contributor for team, finishing with 13 goals and 32 assists. Projected on the team’s fourth line with Jack McBain and Stenlund, it’ll be interesting to see how that impacts his offensive production.
Utah Hockey Schedule
Fans can watch Kerfoot’s first game with the Utah Hockey Club on October 8 against Connor Bedard and the Chicago Blackhawks. Click here for the full schedule.
Cole Bagley is the Utah Hockey Club insider for KSL Sports. Keep up with him on X here. You can hear Cole break down the team on KSL Sports Zone and KSL 5 TV.
Take us with you, wherever you go.
Download the new & improved KSL Sports app from Utah’s sports leader. You can stream live radio, video and stay up to date on all of your favorite teams.
-
Connecticut1 week ago
Oxford church provides sanctuary during Sunday's damaging storm
-
Technology1 week ago
Breakthrough robo-glove gives you superhuman grip
-
Politics1 week ago
Clinton lauds Biden as modern-day George Washington and president who 'healed our sick' in DNC speech
-
Politics1 week ago
2024 showdown: What happens next in the Kamala Harris-Donald Trump face-off
-
News1 week ago
Who Are Kamala Harris’s 1.5 Million New Donors?
-
Politics1 week ago
Trump taunted over speculated RFK Jr endorsement: 'Weird as hell'
-
Politics1 week ago
Vivek Ramaswamy sounds off on potential RFK Jr. role in a Trump administration
-
World6 days ago
Portugal coast hit by 5.3 magnitude earthquake