A New Chapter for Utah Football
The 2026 Big 12 Football Media Days will bring the Utah Utes onto the national stage, where head coach Morgan Scalley will outline his vision for a program poised to honor its defensive legacy while embracing fresh offensive concepts.
Scalley, who spent years developing Utah’s defense under longtime coach Kyle Whittingham, now steps into the head‑coach role tasked with preserving that edge and guiding player development across the roster.
Offensive Firepower Emerges
Quarterback Devon Dampier, a senior who posted 2,490 passing yards and 24 touchdowns last season, will headline the offense, offering a dual‑threat capability that could reshape the Utes’ playbook.
Complementing Dampier, junior running back Wayshawn Parker brings 981 rushing yards and six touchdowns, adding speed and versatility that make Utah’s ground game a dynamic complement to the passing attack.
Defensive Identity Remains Firm
On the defensive front, Lance Holtzclaw, who appeared in all 13 games last year, anchors the line with his experience and performance in the Las Vegas Bowl, while senior linebacker Johnathan Hall, who led the team with 67 tackles, showcases the program’s versatility after transitioning from safety to linebacker.
Hall’s shift reflects Utah’s broader development model, emphasizing adaptability and depth as the team prepares for the rigors of Big 12 competition.
The Media Days cohort embodies a balance of tradition and modernization, as Utah seeks to honor its past while proving its potential in a new conference landscape.
Event Details and Broadcast
The 2026 Big 12 Football Media Days are scheduled for July 8 at The Star in Frisco, Texas, and will be broadcast live on ESPNU with a simulcast on Big 12 Studios, giving fans nationwide a first look at the Utes’ new direction.