"That's been a positive so far and we're doing a good job," said Andersen, who is pleased with the contributions from the line, linebackers, safeties and corners.

Linebacker Mike Wright leads the Utes with 38 tackles. Left end Koa Misi (32), rover linebacker Stevenson Sylvester (30), right end Paul Kruger (29) and tackle Greg Newman (28) are the other team leaders.

"We have smart kids and they prepare very well," Andersen said. "I don't know what else to really say. They've just done a fantastic job of preparing and are very good athletes."

They've handled adjustments every single week, he added.

Contributions have been plentiful. The Utes have already made 46 tackles-for-loss, including a team-high 12.5 by Kruger.

On the tackle front, strong safety Joe Dale (22), cornerback Sean Smith (20), free safety Terrell Cole (19) and stud linebacker Nai Fotu (19) have provided consistency. Nickle back R.J. Stanford (16), linebacker Kepa Gaison (16), cornerback Brice McCain (15), as well as safeties Deshawn Richard (13) and Robert Johnson (12) are other proven stoppers on defense. Shelby, who had six tackles against Oregon State, is Utah's other double-figure tackler.

All are expected to play roles in yet another challenge this week when the Utes visit Wyoming.

Cowboys running back Devin Moore entered Saturday's game at New Mexico averaging 5.6 yards per carry. He's on target to top 1,200 yards rushing this season.

"We know he's a very good runner and they always have a big, physical offensive line," Andersen said. "It'll be another good test for us in the run game."

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E-mail: dirk@desnews.com