SALT LAKE CITY — Although Utah defensive coordinator Morgan Scalley was one of five finalists for the Broyles Award, he did not win the accolade as the nation’s top assistant. The award was given to Louisiana State passing game coordinator Joe Brady.
Scalley, who is in 12th season as a full-time coach with the Utes, attended a gathering at the Little Rock Marriott in Arkansas for the finalists that included Baylor defensive coordinator Phil Snow, Georgia defensive coordinator Dan Lanning and Ohio State co-defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley.
Under Scalley’s direction, Utah’s defense led the nation against the run — allowing just over 70 yards per game. He also coaches the safeties and helped starters Julian Blackmon and Terrell Burgess earn invitations to the Senior Bowl. Three other players on defense — Bradlee Anae, Francis Bernard and Leki Fotu — are also going to the January showcase event. So, too, is running back Zack Moss.
Scalley has been with the Utah football program since 2001. The former Highland High star, who was the first Deseret News Mr. Football award winner, was an All-America safety and Mountain West Conference co-Defensive Player of the Year with the Utes. His coaching career includes stints as recruiting and special teams coordinator. He’s been the defensive coordinator for the past four seasons. The two-time Academic All-American earned a master’s degree in business administration.
On Monday, Whittingham announced that Scalley recently agreed to terms on an amendment to his contract that will “secure his position long term with the Utah football program.”
Whittingham said that “Morgan’s impact on our program as both a player and a coach has been invaluable to our success.”