Utah Utes open 2026 season against Idaho under new coach Scalley

Key points

• Utah (No. 21) plays Idaho at 7 p.m. MDT on Thursday in Salt Lake City, marking Scalley's first regular-season game.
• The Utes underwent major offseason changes, including a new head coach, staff adjustments, and the departure of star players via the transfer portal.
• Utah retained key playmakers from the previous season, maintaining a strong roster despite the changes.
• Predictions for the 2026 season suggest Utah will finish 10-2, with losses expected against Houston and Arizona.
• The Utes are favored to win their first game against Idaho, with a predicted score of 55-20.

Background

Utah's football program has been a focal point in the Big 12 conference, with recent discussions about conference realignment and competitive balance. The 2026 season follows a period of significant transition, including the departure of key players and the arrival of new leadership. The Utes' performance in 2025, including a victory over Nebraska in the Las Vegas Bowl, set the stage for the current season. Additionally, the broader context of Big 12 dynamics, including the potential inclusion of BYU, adds complexity to Utah's competitive landscape.

How outlets are covering it

The Salt Lake Tribune provides detailed game-by-game predictions, emphasizing Utah's strong start and potential for a successful season. AP News focuses on the significance of Scalley's debut and the matchup against Idaho, highlighting the team's ranking and the importance of the game. University of Idaho Athletics frames the game as a renewal of a historic series, emphasizing the competitive nature of the matchup. On3 highlights the readiness of Utah's defensive end Ethan Day, focusing on the team's preparation and the challenges posed by Idaho's dual-threat quarterback. While all sources agree on Utah's favored status, they differ in their emphasis: The Tribune focuses on predictions, AP on the debut, Idaho on the series, and On3 on player readiness.

Why it matters

The 2026 season is crucial for Utah as it navigates a new era under Morgan Scalley. The team's performance will determine its standing in the Big 12 and its potential for playoff contention. The matchup against Idaho serves as a test of the new coaching staff and the team's ability to adapt to offseason changes. Additionally, the season's outcome will influence future conference dynamics and Utah's competitive position in college football.

What to watch

Utah will face Arkansas in its second game, followed by a matchup against Utah State. The team will then travel to Iowa State for its first road game. Key upcoming matchups include games against Kansas, Colorado, and Houston, which are expected to be challenging. The season will conclude with a game against West Virginia, with Utah aiming to finish with a 10-2 record.