U. season ticket sales top 21,000

It could be a record year for Utah football at the turnstiles.

Earlier this week, season ticket sales exceeded 21,000 for just the second time in Rice-Eccles Stadium history. The

Utes are now approximately 500 shy of breaking the all-time record of 21,510 set in 1998.

"People are excited and I think that's a show of respect for what our team did last year," Utah coach Kyle Whittingham said. "We're excited to have season ticket sales going so well. Now we've got to go out and give them a good product."

Sales have increased by more than 1,300 over last year when Texas A&M, Air Force, North Carolina, UNLV, Colorado State and BYU came to town.

This fall, the Utes play host to Arizona, Utah State, Air Force, San Diego State, Wyoming and New Mexico.

Utah officials insist good seats are still available for both single-game and season-ticket purchases at www.UtahTickets.com. Orders can also be taken over the phone at 581-UTIX or in person at the stadium box office.

SIX AND COUNTING: With Friday night's season-opener against Arizona now less than a week away, Whittingham is hoping to make the most of Utah's remaining practice time.

"We need every minute of preparation we've got left," he said while noting that the offensive line is protecting the passer well and receivers continue to make plays.

MADSEN ON THE MEND: Wide receiver John Madsen's recovery from a hamstring pull is progressing, but Whittingham said his status for Friday's opener will likely be a game-time decision.

"He's coming along," Whittingham said. "We'll have a good idea tomorrow about exactly where he stands."

Madsen, whose recovery is looking good according to Whittingham, is scheduled to have an assessment and evaluation of his injury this morning.

EXTRA POINTS: Former Utah coach Urban Meyer and 2003 Liberty Bowl MVP Brandon Warfield are among those expected to attend Thomas Herrion's funeral today in Fort Worth, Texas . . . The Utes will practice this morning before participating in the FanFest at Rice-Eccles Stadium around noon . . . Running back Mike Liti was carted off the practice field after re-injuring his left ankle Friday . . . Jesse Boone and Spencer Toone have joined Steve Fifita on the official watch list for the Rotary Lombardi Award . . . The MUSS, Utah's student fan club, reports that membership has topped 2,800.

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E-mail: dirk@desnews.com