Utah 's mission to reboot its offense started with adding a quarterback-coordinator combination from New Mexico , as Devon Dampier and Jason Beck made their way to Salt Lake City.

But the Utes also needed playmakers to surround Dampier. Their search led them to the transfer portal, naturally, but also to their own roster and, ultimately, to the other side of the ball.

Smith Snowden , who started at nickel in 2024 and had 10 passes defended, and linebacker Lander Barton , the team's tackles leader in fall 2024 who had six passes defended, were the top options.

"Obviously Travis Hunter last year, the success he had, winning the Heisman [Trophy], that struck a chord with a lot of coaches, taking them through their roster: Who do we have that can contribute both ways?" Utah coach

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