As we gear up for the 2026 spring ball, the Utah football team is entering a new era under head coach Morgan Scalley. Expectations are high, and we're diving into our 'Glass Half Empty or Glass Half Full' series to assess each position group before the action kicks off.
Quarterback Position:
Returning Players: 2 (both on scholarship)
New Additions: 2 (both on scholarship)
Outlook: Glass half full
The quarterback room for the Utes is looking promising, and calling it "glass half full" might even be an understatement. Devon Dampier, despite battling injuries, delivered an impressive performance last season.
The senior QB threw for 2,490 yards, just shy of his career best, and significantly improved his touchdown-to-turnover ratio with 24 touchdowns against only five turnovers. He also showcased his dual-threat ability, rushing for 835 yards and 10 touchdowns, making him the team's second-leading rusher.
His completion rate of 63.5% marked a career high, highlighting his growth and consistency.
Joining him in the spotlight is Byrd Ficklin, who made waves as a true freshman. Though he only attempted 35 passes, he completed 21 for 301 yards and three touchdowns, all without a single turnover.
Ficklin's real impact was felt on the ground, where he rushed for 513 yards, the third-highest on the team, and matched Dampier with 10 touchdowns. His 74-yard rush was the longest of the season for Utah.
The bond between Dampier and Ficklin is a rare gem in college football. Their camaraderie on and off the field sets a strong foundation for the team, as both players genuinely support each other's success, regardless of who is taking the snaps.
Beyond the top two quarterbacks, the Utes have added two promising freshmen to their roster: Kane Archer and Michael Johnson. The competition for the QB3 spot this spring will be intriguing to watch.
Kane Archer brings an impressive high school resume, with 10,518 passing yards, 133 touchdowns, and only 14 interceptions. A proven winner with a 37-1 record as a starter, Archer has earned accolades like Gatorade Player of the Year and MaxPreps Arkansas Player of the Year. While his rushing stats might not jump off the page, his ability to make plays when needed is undeniable.
Michael Johnson offers a dynamic dual-threat option, with 5,159 passing yards and 1,373 rushing yards in high school. While he may not have the same passing prowess as Archer, his electrifying running ability adds a different dimension to the offense. Johnson might need some time to adjust to the college game's speed, but his skill set holds great potential for success.
As spring ball approaches, the Utes' quarterback situation is one of excitement and potential. With a mix of proven talent and promising newcomers, Utah's offense is poised to make waves this season.