Utah played Northern Illinois in week two, and despite some ups and downs, they pulled out a solid win. The Utes won 17-6, which is inspiring for their defense. If Utah wants to have a good season and possibly be ranked at the end of the season, their defense needs to play well every game. There are a few players on this Utah team that the NFL undoubtedly has its eyes on. Zack Moss, Chase Hansen, Bradlee Anae, and Julian Blackmon all played well.
Zack Moss – HB
16 Carries – 66 Yards – 1 TD – 1 Reception – 6 Yards
A week after absolutely dominating, Moss had another solid game. He averaged 4.1 yards a carry, which is the goal for running backs each game. One thing that will be important this coming game for Utah is the running game. Washington can consistently put up points, almost at will, and if Moss can give Utah a consistent running game to allow the defense to rest, Utah could pull off the upset. Washington gives up about 4 yards a carry, so it should be a good battle to watch during the game.
Game Grade: B
Current Draft Stock: Round 3-4
Chase Hansen – LB
8 Tackles – 4 Solo Tackles – 2 Sacks – 1 Interception
Chase Hansen was all over the field against NIU; any game with two sacks is impressive. Then when you add the 8 tackles and the interception, it turns it into an amazing game. I know some people will knock the game due to the opponent. However, in order to pull off those stats, you have to be in the right position almost every play, which is more difficult than it sounds.
When Hansen goes up against Washington he will be tasked with stopping Myles Gaskin, who is one of the more productive backs in the country. Hansen will need to at least limit Gaskin’s production for Utah to win the game.
Game Grade: A+
Current Draft Stock: Round 2-3
Bradlee Anae – Edge
2 Tackles
The problem for Bradlee Anae is that he is a defensive lineman. Fans who look at the box score look for sacks. However, Anae does so much more for this Utah defense than just rush the passer. Utah asks their defensive linemen to occupy blocks and allow everyone else to stack the stat sheet, see Chase Hansen.
Anae has a chance to make a big impact and put up stats against Washington, who will be starting their backup left tackle. Anae needs to have an impact on the game for Utah to win.
Game Grade: B
Current Draft Stock: Round 2-4
Julian Blackmon – CB
4 Tackles – 3 Passes Defended
Julian Blackmon played well against NIU; any game where a corner breaks up 3 passes is a good game in my opinion. He also put up 4 tackles, proving that when the receiver does catch it, he can make the tackle and eliminate extra yards.
Blackmon has his work cut out for him in week 3 against Washington. Washington throws the ball all over the yard, and they have their senior Jake Browning leading the offense. Blackmon will have to be on his toes, or he will be on the wrong side of a highlight reel.
Game Grade: B
Current Draft Stock: Round 3