University of Utah 2005 football primer

COUNTDOWN TO GAME DAY: 131 DAYS

WHEN: Sept. 1, vs. Arizona

WHERE: Rice-Eccles Stadium

FROM THE OPPONENT

Receiver Anthony Johnson had eight catches for 101 yards at a recent scrimmage . . . Sophomore starting quarterback Richard Kovalcheck has been injured. Junior Adam Austin has been taking snaps in his place . . . The Wildcats will have their spring game today . . . Senior safety Darrell Brooks is on the watch list for the Lott Trophy . . . Head coach Mike Stoops enters his second year with the program.

NAMES YOU ALREADY KNOW

Steve Fifita, DL: Lineman is the Utes' only first-team all-conference returnee

Jesse Boone, C: Senior returns to lead what should be strong offensive line again in 2005

Travis LaTendresse, WR: Medical hardship waiver gives wide receiver an extra year

John Madsen, WR: At 6-foot-5, former walk-on provides big target in passing game

Eric Weddle, DB: Was second-team all-conference as a sophomore in defensive backfield

NAMES YOU MAY SOON KNOW

Brian Johnson, QB: Sophomore quarterback, who is just 18, has confidence of coaching staff

Grady Marshall, LB: Skyline High graduate will start at middle linebacker for Gary Andersen's defense

Thomas Huff, WR: Sophomore has good size (6-foot-4, 207 pounds)

Casey Evans, S: Former walk-on will try to replace Morgan Scalley

Kelly Talavou, DL: Idaho transfer scheduled to start at nose guard

WHAT THEY'RE MISSING

Alex Smith, QB: Heisman finalist will be a high draft pick today

Chris Kemoeatu, OL: Was first-team all-conference on O-line

Morgan Scalley, DB: Speedy DB had six interceptions, two TDs

Steve Savoy, WR: After 17 TDs in '05, made surprise jump to NFL

Sione Pouha, DL: Had two sacks as part of dominant defensive line