Whittingham stressed that he didn't want to lose Ludwig, who joined the Utah coaching staff after stints at Oregon, Fresno State, Cal Poly and Boise State. The former Bonneville High and Snow College player has developed a good reputation for developing quarterbacks. Utah's Brian Johnson was named MWC Offensive Player of the Year for 2008.

"I didn't want to lose Andy. We led the league in scoring this year and we've done some very nice things on offense," Whittingham said. "We certainly made a pitch to keep him in our camp. But ultimately we couldn't match what Kansas State was able to offer him."

Ludwig will turn his attention to the Wildcats after Utah squares off against Alabama. Until then, he's focused on the Utes.

"I told the team I feel like I'm a senior now," Ludwig said. "All I want to do is win this bowl game. But then it's time for me to move on."

Whittingham is pleased things will be status quo until the trip to New Orleans is complete. Like Ludwig, Andersen is also staying on to assist the Utes in the Sugar Bowl.

"Then everybody kind of goes their different directions," Whittingham said.

EXTRA POINTS: Defensive graduate assistant Ilaisa Tuiaki has accepted a full-time position with Andersen at USU. ... Whittingham said his search for a new defensive line coach has been reduced to a "short list" and an announcement could come shortly after the bowl game. ... Wednesday's practice was Utah's first of the week. Whittingham acknowledged it was "good to get back in it again." He estimated that 8-10 players, however, missed the light workout because of final exams. ... Mid-year letters-of-intent were received from quarterback Terrance Cain (Blinn College, Texas) and cornerback Kamaron Yancy (Pierce College, Calif.) on Wednesday. Cornerback Maxwell Lacy (Compton College, Calif.) is expected to submit his on Thursday. All three players are expected to enroll at the U. in January.

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E-mail: dirk@desnews.com