Utah builds flexible offence around two quarterbacks
Devon Dampier and Byrd Ficklin share roles across the formation as No. 12 Utah prepares to host Kansas.
Utah’s offence uses quarterbacks Devon Dampier and Byrd Ficklin together in a range of roles, giving the team several options within the same formation. The Utes have started the season 4–0 and beat Arkansas 43–10.
Ficklin has taken snaps at quarterback and lined up in the backfield, out wide and in the slot. Dampier, Utah’s designated starter, has also occasionally lined up outside the quarterback position. Their package uses motion, option plays and passes from Ficklin.
CBS Sports reported that the coaching staff developed the system partly to keep both quarterbacks involved. Dampier advocated for Ficklin to receive more playing time, and offensive coordinator Kevin McGiven built plays around their skills.
The approach gives Utah flexibility over who takes the snap and how the play develops. The report said Ficklin and Dampier continued working on possible plays during the team’s bye week.
Utah is preparing to host Kansas. McGiven said the team had more ideas than it could carry into the game.
