For the first time since 2003, Utah is not the media's top choice to finish first. Defending champion TCU is this year's No. 1 pick. The Horned Frogs, who went 11-1 last season, received 16 first-place votes. BYU got five, Utah three and Colorado State one.

"I think they made the right choice," said Utah coach Kyle Whittingham. "TCU would have been my choice."

Rightfully so, he added, as defending conference champs with several returning starters.

"When you're chosen No. 1, that puts a bulls-eye on you and you've got that target. That's all that matters," Whittingham said after Utah's two-year reign as preseason favorites came to an end. "I don't think anyone remembers who is No. 2 through No. 9, it's all about being No. 1."

As such, the Utes aren't fretting about early projections.

"We don't have a lot of concern for the preseason polls," said Whittingham, who noted they can be both good and bad. "It is what it is. It's preseason hype, if you will. . . . I think after No. 1, it's an irrelevant deal."

On the individual front, Whittingham was pleased to see Weddle honored. The versatile senior was a third-team All-American in 2005 after making 78 tackles (11 for loss), four sacks and four interceptions.

"That one is right on the mark. He's deserving of every accolade that he has gotten in this preseason," said Whittingham.

Weddle is the product of success on the field, he continued, and not just hype.

Although appreciative of the preseason award and the attention it brings to Utah's defense, Weddle isn't completely satisfied.

"It's good to hear but it doesn't mean much now," said Weddle. "It'll mean much more at the end of the season."

Weddle was the lone Ute defender named to the preseason squad. Wide receiver Brian Hernandez, offensive linemen Tavo Tupola and Jason Boone and return specialist Brent Casteel round out Utah's representation.

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E-mail: dirk@desnews.com