yahoo
Utah football achieved a 9-0 start for the first time since 2008 with a 28-20 win over BYU, but the victory came with a scare regarding star running back Wayshawn Parker. Parker appeared to suffer an injury on the opening drive and was limited throughout the game, carrying the ball only twice in the first half. Fans anxiously awaited updates for nearly 24 hours after the rivalry win.
Relief arrived Sunday evening when ESPN college football insider Pete Thamel provided a promising report on X (formerly Twitter). Thamel stated that Parker is dealing with a bruise and is expected to play Saturday at No. 22 Arizona.
Parker's production against BYU was uncharacteristically low, as he averaged just 2.6 yards per carry after entering the game with a remarkable 6.6 yards per carry average and nine touchdowns. However, Utah did not need to lean heavily on Parker, thanks to dual-threat quarterback Devon Dampier, who threw a touchdown pass, rushed for multiple scores, and even caught a deep pass on a trick play.
Key Analysis
With Parker expected back, Utah will be at full strength for a crucial Big 12 matchup against Arizona, which escaped an upset bid by TCU on Friday. The game in Tucson is expected to have a raucous atmosphere and could significantly impact the College Football Playoff race, especially if Arizona pulls off the upset. Utah's 9-0 start also brings an interesting omen: the last time the Utes began 9-0 in 2008, they finished undefeated and defeated Nick Saban-led Alabama in the Sugar Bowl.
Originally reported by yahoo.