Common thread in U. string

FORT WORTH, Texas — Utah's sixth consecutive bowl victory was much like the previous five. Saturday's 25-13 win over Tulsa in the Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl had a defensive tone to it.

The Utes, who have outscored their opponents 142-52 during the streak, have not allowed more than two touchdowns in any of the games. The Golden Hurricane, in fact, are the first to reach the end zone twice on offense against the Utes.

It had little impact on the outcome, however, as Utah held Tulsa to just 254 yards and 13 first downs. The Golden Hurricane were stopped on third down nine times.

"Overall, I think the key to the game was, No. 1, the defense," said Utah coach Kyle Whittingham.

Safety Steve Tate led the Utes with 10 tackles, including a sack. Cornerback Eric Weddle made six stops, picked off a pass and recovered a fumble. He also teamed with Soli Lefiti on a sack.

"It was a great defensive effort overall," said Weddle, who capped his stellar career with the Utes in impressive fashion.

Utah's offense and special teams did their part as well.

The Utes scored 16 straight points after falling behind 7-3 early in the second quarter. The outburst put them ahead for good, though things did get a little dramatic before all was said and done.

After Tulsa closed the gap to 19-13 in the fourth quarter, Weddle came up big down the stretch, scoring on a 4-yard run off a direct snap with 1:05 remaining and then intercepting a pass on the final play of the game.

"We just wanted it tonight," Weddle said. "We wanted it more."

Louie Sakoda was named the game's MVP after kicking four field goals, and Brent Casteel scored a touchdown on a hook-and-ladder play.

Quarterback Brett Ratliff completed 23 passes as Utah racked up 405 yards of total offense.

Utah's bowl streak

2006 Armed Forces Bowl

Utah 25, Tulsa 13

2005 Emerald Bowl

Utah 38, Georgia Tech 10

2005 Fiesta Bowl

Utah 35, Pittsburgh 7

2003 Liberty Bowl

Utah 17, So. Miss 0

2001 Las Vegas Bowl

Utah 10, USC 6

1999 Las Vegas Bowl

Utah 17, Fresno State 16

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E-mail: dirk@desnews.com

Contributing: Linda Hamilton