3 key points — Utah defense

• STYLE: The Utes play a 4-3 defense with multiple sets and a lot of substitutions on the defensive line and in nickel and dime packages. Coach Kyle Whittingham says the Utes have an aggressive philosophy with blitz packages, but in the past the Utes have been known as a bend-but-not break defense that allows yards but few scores. The Utes primarily use man-to-man coverage in the secondary. After last year's BYU loss, some Ute fans hope their team comes up with a different "prevent" defense at the end of games.

• PERSONNEL: Losing safety Eric Weddle, a four-year starter who was twice MWC defensive player of the year, leaves a big hole to fill for the defense. The Utes also lost three starting defensive linemen, a cornerback and three-year starter Casey Evans, who played both linebacker and safety.

• WHAT TO EXPECT: With only five starters back, the Utes appear to be lacking experience, but many of the new starters have seen significant action the past couple of years. Without Weddle, the Utes will be missing a key ingredient, but senior captains Steve Tate and Joe Jiannoni lead a solid defense that should get better as the year progresses.