Utah notes

Back-up battle

Brian Johnson, the 17-year-old freshman from Texas, is the frontrunner to become Alex Smith's back-up at quarterback.

Though Utah coach Urban Meyer said the job will remain up for battle until the first game, he acknowledged a slight separation is taking place.

"Right now, if you had to say right now, I'd say Brian Johnson (then) Adam Madsen," said Meyer. "It's real close."

Quarterback Fano Tagovailoa isn't going to be included on the depth chart, Meyer said, because "he's going to play as a curve ball."

"He can't run the offense from A to Z," he explained. "But those other kids are really improving."

Paying respect

Junior tailback Quinton Ganther, who carried the ball 18 times for 79 yards and a touchdown in Tuesday's scrimmage, missed both practices Wednesday. He returned to his home to Richmond, Calif., to attend the funeral of his best friend Terrance Kelly, who was shot to death last week. A 15-year-old suspect, reportedly upset over being disrespected in a basketball game, is now in police custody. Kelly, 18, signed with Oregon and planned to be in Eugene yesterday for the opening of training camp.

Competitive Clark

Viewmont High product Jon Clark, a transfer from Houston, is the top candidate to replace the versatile Ben Moa at tight end.

"He's tougher than nails He's got great hands. I don't think he's as elusive as Ben Moa but he might be a better blocker," said Meyer. "He catches everything you throw at him, and he's a competitive guy."

As such, Meyer anticipates using Clark in many situations Moa was utilized in a year ago. One exception, however, is tailback where the Utes have plenty of depth with starting candidates Mike Liti, Marty Johnson, Darryl Poston and Ganther.

"We have some issues that are real positive issues in the backfield," said Meyer.