Utah Utes football: Utes less than stellar in 27-10 victory over Montana State

SALT LAKE CITY — Utah's season-opening 27-10 victory over Montana State wasn't followed by a lot of positive reaffirmation. The Utes were less than stellar Thursday night at Rice-Eccles Stadium.

"We won't win a game in the Pac-12 if we play like this the rest of the way," said Utah coach Kyle Whittingham, who was especially unhappy with the throw game.

The Utes finished with just 101 yards in the air on 15-of-23 passing by quarterback Jordan Wynn.

"We've got to play better. I've got to play better," Wynn said while noting he needs to make a couple of more throws. "We'll watch the tape and learn from it."

Utah has a big test looming. The Utes face USC next week in Los Angeles.

"Don't discredit Montana State at all. They're a good football team. They played tough, and they didn't give up," Wynn said. "But, I mean, it's USC now. So you can't play like that and expect to win."

The Utes managed just 16 first downs against the Big Sky Conference's Bobcats. They netted just 292 yards of offense.

"We got the 'W.' It was less than impressive. No one would argue that," Whittingham said. "The offense was sluggish. We didn't have a good tempo, especially at the beginning."

There were some bright spots, though.

Running back John White IV had an impressive debut with 150 yards on 19 carries. Tight ends Dallin Rogers and Kendrick Moeai each finished with a team-high five catches.

The defense had a decent day with safety-turned-linebacker Brian Blechen picking off two passes. Chaz Walker made a team-high 10 tackles and Utah limited Montana State to only 12 first downs.

"We made plays but we had some missed opportunities as well," said defensive tackle Derrick Shelby. "(Montana State quarterback) DeNarius McGhee is a very mobile playmaker, but we were able to corral him most of the night."

McGhee completed 16-of-29 passes for 183 yards. He was intercepted and sacked twice.

The Utes had shutout going until giving up a touchdown late in the opening half, an eight-play series covering 79 yards.

"That is unacceptable," Whittingham said. "We cannot give up drives like that to any opponent."

It was Utah's offense, however, in the spotlight as new offensive coordinator Norm Chow unveiled his scheme.