No. 13 Utah Utes beat Northern Illinois Huskies 35-17 in 2019 home opener

Published: Sept 7, 2019, 9:50 a.m. MDT

Utah Utes running back Zack Moss (2) is congratulated after scoring a touchdown during first half action in the University of Utah versus Northern Illinois football game at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019. Steve Griffin, Deseret News

SALT LAKE CITY — The 13th-ranked Utah Utes started a little slow on both sides of the ball but got going offensively in the second quarter and clamped down defensively in the second half to beat the Northern Illinois Huskies 35-17 in their 2019 home opener at Rice-Eccles Stadium.

With the win, the Utes moved to 2-0 on the season.

Here are three takeaways from the game:

Offense

The Utes didn’t in the first quarter, but exploded for 21 points in the second quarter on three rushing touchdowns from each member of the “Hallandale Trio,” quarterback Tyler Huntley, wide receiver Demari Simpkins and running back Zack Moss.

Defense

After allowing 17 points in the first half, the Utes were simply dominant defensively in the second. Not only did they pitch a shutout over the final quarters, but they only allowed the Huskies to get three first downs. Defensive end Bradlee Anae was particularly dominant with three sacks and a forced fumble, while Julian Blackmon had an interception that set up a touchdown.

Special teams

After some shaky play in this department in the season-opener against BYU, Utah was excellent Saturday. Most notably, Jadon Redding made all five of his extra-point attempts.