Scalley, other Utah seniors want to 'go out the right way'

Morgan Scalley isn't much of a self-promoter.

When it comes to discussing fifth-ranked Utah's team success, the starting safety is an accomplished spokesman.

"We want to go out the right way," Scalley said as the Utes (10-0) prepare for Saturday's season finale against BYU (5 p.m., ESPN2). A victory will almost certainly secure them a spot in the Bowl Championship Series.

As one of 19 seniors on the squad, Scalley admits emotions are running a bit high as his final game at Rice-Eccles Stadium approaches.

"Definitely. It's tough going down near the end with the memories that you've had," he explained. "This will be a special game."

And not just for some.

"This year has been special in that we've been able to keep everyone focused on the task at hand," said Scalley. "That's not any different this week. The game is for everyone, not just the seniors."

There's little room for individuality in this team captain's world.

Though he's tied with four others for the most interceptions in the nation, it's a topic Scalley politely avoids.

"Don't jinx me," he joked. "Don't jinx me."

With interceptions in four straight games and a half-dozen picks over five of Utah's past six outings, Scalley is firmly entrenched among the nation's elite defensive backs.

"He's really coming into his own these last four or five weeks. He's always been a very good player for us, but these last couple of weeks he's playing as well as any free safety in the country," said Utah defensive coordinator Kyle Whittingham. "He's just lights out. It's a tribute to his work ethic. His film study is second to none. His practice habits are second to none.

"He's a tireless worker," Whittingham added. "So it's no surprise to me that he's playing as well as he is."

Scalley is part of a senior class that Whittingham considers as good as any a coach could hope for.

"This is a great group," he continued. "Shoot, I might just retire with them."