ANALYST: Utah Is BACK, Will Win Big 12 Conference, BYU's Quarterback, Texas Tech? | Big 12 Squad

The Utah Utes football program is showing significant improvement in the 2025 season, particularly on the offensive side of the ball, which was a point of weakness in their previous campaign. As of early October 2025, Utah boasts a strong 4-1 overall record (1-1 in the Big 12 Conference) and is ranked in the AP Top 25 poll (No. 25). Here are the key factors contributing to Utah's improved performance: Revamped Offense and New Quarterback: The biggest change is the arrival of new offensive coordinator Jason Beck and transfer quarterback Devon Dampier (both from New Mexico). Dampier, who followed Beck to Salt Lake City, has provided a major spark to the offense, which struggled last year due to injuries and inconsistency.  Through five games, Dampier has been highly efficient, completing 72.5% of his passes for over 1,000 yards and 11 touchdowns. The offense has improved dramatically, ranking 21st nationally in scoring (39.0 points per game) compared to being outside the top 100 last year. They are also ranked 13th nationally in rushing yards per game (242.6).  Continued Defensive Excellence: Head Coach Kyle Whittingham's teams are consistently known for their elite defense, and 2025 is no exception. The Utes' defense is among the best in the nation, ranking 20th in points allowed (14.6 points per game) and consistently stifling opposing offenses. This reliable defense provides a strong foundation for the team's success. Veteran Offensive Line: The team returned all five starters on the offensive line, a rarity in college football. This experienced group, led by standout tackles like Spencer Fano, provides excellent pass protection for Dampier and creates running lanes for the running backs. Strong Start: Utah has notched impressive wins, including dominant road victories against UCLA and West Virginia. Their sole loss was a home defeat to a ranked Texas Tech team, but they rebounded with a decisive victory in their next game. In summary, the combination of a high-powered, balanced offense led by a dynamic transfer quarterback/coordinator duo, coupled with the program's customary stout defense, has positioned Utah for a major "bounce-back" season and a potential run for the Big 12 Championship.  Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!5-Hour ENERGYEnough with boring, flavorless caffeine, it’s time to give your caffeine a flavor upgrade with 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots. Get the favorites you love or be bold and try something new in-store and online at https://www.5hourENERGY.com or Amazon today.   SquareTo learn more, go support your favorite neighborhood spot and see what Square has been up to in your neck of the woods. And then if you have extra time, check out https://square.com/go/lockedoncollege PelotonLet yourself run, lift, flex, and push forward. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ today at https://www.onepeloton.com. QuoSee why over 90,000 businesses trust Quo, formerly OpenPhone. Get started free and get 20% off your first 6 months at https://www.Quo.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. DoorDashWith DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18. MazdaIt’s the small details that make the big plays. And just like there’s more to every player, there’s more to a Mazda vehicle.Mazda. Move and Be Moved. GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. Monarch MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at https://www.monarchmoney.com/lockedoncollege for 50% off your first year. FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)   Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOBig12?sid=YouTube Locked On College Conferences, HBCU, Basketball & More🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnCollege  Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/drakectollFollow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LOBig12 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.