With future conference memeber Utah St. Aggies hosting rival Utah Utes, it felt necessary to talk about Utah State and discuss what we see tonight. The game kicks off at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN, the line on this game has Utah as only a touchdown favorite over Utah.
That seems to be a bit generous for Las Vegas to think Utah State is actually within a touchdown against Utah. The Aggies do have the best quarterback on the field in Chuckie Keeton, and he is possibly the best quarterback in the entire state of Utah.
One spot where Utah State has question marks is at the running back spot where they lost Robert Turbin to the Seattle Seahwaks. Turbin could e ven be starting for the Seahawks as a rookie, plus his backup Michael Smith was picked up by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the draft. Replacement Joe Hill is the new starter and rushed for 116 yards and three touchdowns, but that was against Southern Utah.
However, the key in this game will be if Utah State's offensive line can make running lanes for Hill, or give Keaton time to throw the ball. The Utah front seven is at the top of the Pac-12 ranks and the country. That defense is anchored by Joe Kruger and potentinal first round draft pick Star Lotulelei.
Utah State will also have to contend with Utah running back John White who is a stud, and should be able to break free for a few big plays Friday night.
If Utah State is going to stay in this game and possibly win, then they will need to force Utah quarterback Jordan Wynn to throw interceptions, and their offensive line must give Keeton time to throw the ball.