College Football Camps Begin Across the State – Here's What We Need to Know

Utah: A New Era for the Utes

In Salt Lake City, the Utah football team is preparing for a new season with a fresh face at quarterback. Devon Dampier, a transfer from New Mexico, has joined offensive coordinator Jason Beck in a bid to revitalize the Utes' offense. The challenge ahead includes adapting to the Big 12's physicality and finding enough backfield support to complement Dampier's skills.

The offensive line features two standout linemen, Spencer Fano and Caleb Lomu, who are determined to match or surpass the legacy of past stars like Jordan Gross and Zane Beadles. Beck, known for his success at Virginia under Bronco Mendenhall, brings experience, but the question remains whether he can find enough talent to support the offense. Washington State transfer Wayshawn Parker could be a key addition, but the departure of 1,000-yard rusher Micah Bernard leaves a gap that must be filled.

On the receiving end, a group of transfers could provide the spark needed to move the ball effectively. However, the real test comes when Utah reaches the red zone—will it be celebration or frustration? Additionally, the Ute defense must adjust to new rules that restrict defensive signals, which could impact their performance.

BYU: Building on Past Success

BYU’s head coach, Kalani Sitake, has secured a contract extension and made several strategic moves, including upgrading the strength and conditioning facility and securing a top-20 recruiting class for 2026. However, the challenge lies in replicating the 11-2 season from 2024 without Jake Retzlaff.

Freshman QB Bear Bachmeier is vying for the starting role against Treyson Bourguet and McCae Hillstead. The competition will determine who leads the offense. Linebacker Ace Kaufusi has shown promise, and Isaiah Glasker, a tackle-for-loss king, may be overlooked by preseason analysts.

The coaching staff must also decide how much playing time to give starting running back LJ Martin and how conservative they will be in early games. Replacing Jakob Robinson in the secondary presents another challenge, as Jernaro Gilford steps into a critical role.

Utah State: A Defensive Focus

Under Bronco Mendenhall, Utah State aims to build a strong defense to prevent high-scoring losses. The Aggies need to improve their discipline and accountability to make an impact in the Mountain West. Quarterback Bryson Barnes must provide enough support to help the defense achieve a .500 record and potentially secure a bowl game.

The nonconference schedule is tough, with challenges against Vanderbilt, Texas A&M, and McNeese State. Mendenhall needs to bring stability after a difficult season marked by coaching changes and player departures. Can he turn things around at Maverik Stadium?

Weber State: Cultural Change and Challenges

Mickey Mental faces a daunting task as Weber State prepares for a challenging nonconference slate. The team's focus on a "cultural change" involves improving conditioning and commitment. Returning quarterback Richie Munoz must develop chemistry with receivers Jacob Sharp and Jayleen Record, while running backs Damon Bankston and Adrian Cormier will play a crucial role.

The offensive line, led by Gavin Ortega and Colter May, needs to be strong to protect Munoz and create opportunities. Defensively, linemen Brayden Wilson and Keahnist Thompson must step up to support the defense. Defensive coordinator Joe Dale has a strong front seven, but the linebackers and secondary need to improve to support the run-stopping effort.

Utah Tech: Transitioning to FCS

Lance Anderson, the new head coach at Utah Tech, faces a difficult 2025 schedule with six teams that made the FCS playoffs in 2024. Despite the challenges, Anderson has the support and resources to build momentum. The Trailblazers must improve their run defense, something they struggled with in a 1-11 season.

Offensive players like Reggie Graff and Joshua Carter will be key to gaining momentum. Home games at Greater Zion Stadium offer a chance to build confidence, but the program is still transitioning to FCS level play. Anderson must balance recruits, tryouts, and transfers to create a competitive roster.

Southern Utah: Navigating a New Conference

DeLane Fitzgerald faces the challenge of transitioning to the Big Sky conference while dealing with attrition due to the transfer portal and NIL opportunities. His team had a six-win season in 2024, and matching that record would be a significant achievement. Returning players Justin Miller and Bobby Cole will lead the offense, while the defense must create turnovers to support the team.

Fitzgerald's aggressive defensive schemes have proven effective, but consistency and close-game execution will be critical. Losses to UC Davis and Abilene Christian serve as motivation to improve in 2025. Coaches like Fitzgerald must adapt to the changing landscape of college football, balancing traditional strategies with modern challenges.