SALT LAKE CITY(AP) — Morgan Scalley was promoted from defensive coordinator to head coach at Utah on Saturday, succeeding Kyle Whittingham, who announced Friday he would step down after 21 seasons.

Scalley will take over after No. 15 Utah plays Nebraska in the Las Vegas Bowl on December 31. He's been the defensive coordinator under Whittingham for 10 seasons and has been a part of the Utah coaching staff since 2007.

Utah ranks in the top 20 nationally this season in passing efficiency defense, total interceptions (14) and scoring defense (18.7 points per game).

“Being a part of the Utah football program was a childhood dream of mine that has turned into an incredible 25-year journey that I am blessed to say is continuing,” Scalley said in a statement. “I have been mentored by some of

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