UCLA vs. Utah: A pair of teams that went 5-7 last season are eager to change course as they head into 2025. Like many programs in today’s game, they’ll be doing so with new quarterbacks.
While it’s not technically a “Pac-12 after dark” matchup, it’ll still give late-night bettors those same vibes on Saturday evening. Many people look to this time slot to rebuild their bankroll after a rough day, but there’s an edge worth taking advantage of well before kickoff. Let’s jump into my picks and predictions between UCLA and Utah.
Check out the latest odds at the best online sportsbooks. Plus, you’ve still got some time to add more futures to your portfolio so be sure to check out our Power Four Conference Previews below.
UCLA vs. Utah NCAA Football Insights
Is Nico Iamaleava is answer to UCLA’s offensive problems?
UCLA vs Utah Betting Odds
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Spread
- UCLA +5.5 (-110)
- Utah -5.5 (-110)
Moneyline
- UCLA +183
- Utah -215
Total
- Over 51.5 (-110)
- Under 51.5 (-110)
Quarterback Questions
The Bruins and Utes are both members of the ever-popular transfer quarterback club, with UCLA turning to former Tennessee Volunteer Nico Iamaleava and Utah handing the offense to former New Mexico Lobo Devon Dampier.
Iamaleava led Tennessee to the College Football Playoff, where they fell 42-17 in the first round to eventual champion Ohio State. On the year, he threw for more than 2,600 yards with 19 touchdowns and five interceptions, while adding 358 rushing yards. It’s a major upgrade for the Bruins at the most important position – but will it be enough to get past Utah’s traditionally strong defensive foundation?
Speaking of upgrades, Utah should feel confident with their new man under center. Devon Dampier is a true dual-threat who also brings his offensive coordinator, Jason Beck, with him. His passing game can be a rollercoaster — last season he threw for 2,768 yards with 12 touchdowns and 12 interceptions while completing just 58% of his passes. Where he lacks in accuracy, though, he makes up for with his legs. Dampier carried the ball 155 times for 1,166 yards (7.5 yards per carry) and found the end zone 19 times on the ground.
There’s no doubt that under Head Coach Kyle Whittingham, and behind what should be a formidable offensive line, Dampier can improve in both facets of his game.
Where to Worry
As much hype as there is around UCLA landing Iamaleava, there should be just as much concern about their defense – particularly up front. The Bruins lost four players from the front seven and now face what could be one of the best offensive lines in the country.
Utah’s game plan will almost certainly lean on the ground attack. Why wouldn’t it? The Utes have a dominant offensive line, a quarterback who’s more dangerous on his feet than through the air, and a new tailback in Wayshawn Parker. The Washington State transfer rushed 137 times for 735 yards (5.4 yards per carry) and four touchdowns last season, and he should see a bigger workload under this new system.
Go With What You Know
Utah’s 5-7 finish last season was an aberration. Prior to that, Coach Kyle Whittingham hadn’t posted a losing record since 2013, when the Utes also went 5-7. Expectations were high as usual in 2024, but injuries and constant quarterback changes derailed the year. Whittingham’s teams are always tough, resilient, and talented — there’s no reason they can’t quickly flip the script and contend in the Big 12.
Utah’s identity remains rooted in defense. Last season they ranked 29th in Total Defense, allowing 329.7 yards per game and 5.05 yards per play. With key players returning and reinforcements added, that unit should once again be a strength.
UCLA should flash some offensive growth with a capable quarterback in place, but I’m not betting on it happening immediately. Iamaleava’s first start in a new system – with limited weapons and against an established program – is a tough ask.
Best Bet
Clearly I’m favoring the side of Utah. I love backing Whittingham and believe his schematics combined with this roster give the Utes a major edge over DeShaun Foster’s Bruins in just his second season.
Utah flips the script this year, and it starts in Week 1 with the Utes covering -5.5.
Need More NCAA Football Action?
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