Utah Utes seek second straight win against Cincinnati

No. 6 Utah (7-0, 4-0) travels to Nippert Stadium on Saturday to face Cincinnati (5-2, 2-2) in a contest that could expose the Utes to their first major test of the season. Kickoff is set for 1:45 p.m. MDT, with the game broadcast on ESPN and available via the ESPN app for participating TV providers. The Cincinnati forecast calls for highs in the 60s throughout the afternoon.

The Utes remain the only undefeated team in the Big 12 after a 21-13 victory over Houston last week. That win marked the first time Utah faced an opponent with a winning record this season. Meanwhile, Cincinnati enters the game with momentum after snapping a two-game losing streak with a win over then No. 8 Texas Tech. The Bearcats are looking for their second consecutive top-10 victory.

Historically, Utah has dominated this series, holding a 1-0 lead. The only previous meeting occurred in 2025 in Salt Lake City, where the Utes defeated the Bearcats 45-14. However, Cincinnati has shown recent offensive balance, gaining 255 yards on the ground against Texas Tech while limiting their opponents to 172 passing yards.

Utah quarterback Devon Dampier is the focal point for the defense. He rushed for 150 yards and two touchdowns against Houston, a performance that suggests the Utes are utilizing his dual-threat capabilities more effectively this year. Despite this, Dampier threw two interceptions in that game, a liability that could prove costly against a Cincinnati defense that forced two turnovers in their previous matchup.

Cincinnati head coach Scott Satterfield praised Utah's stability, noting that the coaching change was seamless because the new staff member had been part of the program for his entire career. Satterfield called Utah a solid team worthy of a top-10 ranking, specifically complimenting Dampier and the offensive line. Utah coach Morgan Scalley acknowledged the praise but urged his team to remain focused on the process.

The game will feature a clash of styles. Utah’s defense under Morgan Scalley aims to pressure Cincinnati quarterback JC French IV, while their offense must protect the football against a home crowd. Cincinnati running back Cole Tabb, who had 173 rushing yards in the previous week, is expected to be a primary target for the Bearcats' ground game.

After Saturday’s contest, Utah will host BYU on Nov. 7, while Cincinnati will travel to Houston. The Utes have not lost in the conference this year, having defeated Kansas, Colorado, and Houston to complete their current unbeaten run.