Run of success — Utes on a roll thanks to Mack's rushing

Utah quarterback Brian Johnson insists there hasn't been a change of philosophy regarding the offense. The Utes haven't abandoned the spread-option attack, nor have they become a predominately run-oriented team.

"We've always tried to be balanced in what we're doing," said Johnson, who acknowledged that the line and tailback Darrell Mack have done a nice job of running the ball in recent weeks.

"There's no secret to the game of football," Johnson continued. "If you're able to run the ball and run the ball effectively, your chances of winning increase."

Mack's production proves it. The Utes are 5-0 this season when he rushes for at least 100 yards.

"That's been our formula for success," head coach Kyle Whittingham said as Utah prepares for Saturday's game at Colorado State.

In last week's 27-20 win over TCU, Mack carried the ball 32 times. Utah dominated the time-of-possession by nearly 15 minutes while running 50 plays on the ground and attempting just 20 passes.

The plan worked as the Utes extended their winning streak to four games.

And that's all that matters, according to Johnson.

"A win is a win — whether we have five wides all the time or the I-formation," he said. "I don't care which way we do it as long as we are winning."

It's the bottom line.

"This is an unselfish team. We don't care who gets what as long as we win," Johnson said. "Guys are completely unselfish on this team. This team is all about winning."

Whether it's handing off, running the option or dropping back to pass, Johnson is determined to do whatever it takes to win. The shoulder injury he suffered in the season-opener remains a bit sore and will be until it can be rested for significant time in the offseason.

That, he noted, may be one of the reasons Utah's play-calling has been altered a bit. The biggest factor, though, is the effectiveness of Mack and the run game.

"We're executing better, and guys are starting to play a little more confident," Johnson said. "Every week you see guys step up and feel a little more confident with what they're doing, and its showing on the field."

Utah's receiving corps hasn't been completely quiet. With all-conference honoree Brent Casteel out for most of the season with a knee injury, others have stepped up. Derrek Richards leads the team with 33 catches, while Bradon Godfrey and Brian Hernandez have 32 and 25, respectively. In all, 13 players have made receptions through the first eight games.