Utah Football 2026 Preview: Can Morgan Scalley Keep Utah’s Identity Alive?

Utah won 11 games last season, but almost everything around that success has changed. Kyle Whittingham is now at Michigan, Morgan Scalley takes over as head coach, both coordinators are new, eight position coaches are new and the Utes must replace all five starters along the offensive line. Devon Dampier and Wayshawn Parker give the offense an experienced foundation, but this is no longer the familiar Utah setup where the next wave of developed linemen and defenders simply steps into place.

That makes 2026 a fascinating test of how much of Utah’s identity can survive the transition. Scalley wants a more aggressive offense, Dampier could take another step as a passer, and the early schedule gives the Utes some runway to figure things out, but the rebuilt trenches and massive personnel turnover make another 11-win season difficult to assume.

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