April 19, 2024

Utah Utes may use Kendal Thompson (Kiowa Tribe) against UCLA on Saturday

 

The University of Utah Head Coach Kyle Whittingham didn’t rule out the opportunity for Kendal Thompson (Kiowa Tribe of Oklahoma) to get some solid playing time this weekend when the Utes travel to the Rose Bowl to take on No. 8 UCLA. The game will be covered live by ESPN with a kickoff time scheduled for 8:30 PM MT.

Travis Wilson, the Utes’ current starter, struggled in a 28-27 loss to Washington State last week. He completed 18 of 38 passes for 165 yards in game which saw a 21-0 lead evaporate.

Whittingham felt that he should have used Kendal Thompson, a transfer from the University Oklahoma, in the last game. “We’re taking a look at all possibilities,” Whittingham said. “Kendal, in hindsight, probably should have gotten a couple of series in the game Saturday. But we’re looking for any and every answer we can come up with offensively.”

Earlier this week Wittingham noted that the team has to play a full 60 minutes, whether it’s the first game or the fifth game and the offense needs to shore up its consistency. “Travis Wilson is progressing in reading defenses and doing a good job of avoiding sacks.” he said “Kendal Thompson is a good decision maker and we have a lot of confidence in him.”

Currently on the season, Kendal is (14-26-1) in passing and has  amassed 189 total passing yards coming off the bench and he has gained 117 yards on the ground this season on 23 carries or hurries.