GRADE D-

Offense

Utah turned the ball over five times and gave up nine sacks. Converting on just 4-of-15 third-down opportunities also factored into the setback. On the positive side, Brian Johnson threw for 360 yards and four touchdowns. Travis LaTendresse (192 yards receiving) and Quinton Ganther (98 yards rushing) were other bright spots.

GRADE B+

Defense

Though the Utes managed to hold MWC rushing leader DonTrell Moore to just 70 yards on 25 carries, they weren't able to finish the deal. Soli Lefiti and Steve Tate led Utah with 10 tackles apiece, while Eric Weddle and Kyle Brady made interceptions. Weddle also tied a school-record with four pass breakups.

GRADE D+

Special teams

View Comments

Ineffective punting, inconsistency on coverage teams and allowing a PAT to get blocked didn't help the Utes. Utah's grade was raised by respectable kickoff returns by Brent Casteel, Derrek Richards and Fano Tangovailoa.

GRADE D

Overall

Though Utah battled to the end, it wasn't enough to get the job done in a "must-win" situation with bowl-eligibility riding on it at home. Turnovers and injuries combined to doom the Utes — forcing them to win at rival BYU next weekend just to keep postseason hopes alive. All things considered, a "D" for disappointing.

Looking for comments?
Find comments in their new home! Click the buttons at the top or within the article to view them — or use the button below for quick access.