Much of the credit goes to Utah's front seven. Whittingham said they're playing well — an undersized defensive line has been very active and the linebackers are doing a nice job.

Behind them, there's a talented secondary that has helped the Utes rank among the top three in the Mountain West Conference in nine statistical categories.

"I feel like our front seven is just excellent. Whenever a front seven is real good, it makes it hard for the secondary to stand out," said safety Robert Johnson. "Right now, our whole defense is standing out in all different categories and that is just working out well for us."

Of the 40 quarters played this season, the Utes have held opponents to under 20 yards rushing 21 times — including eight with negative yardage.

Last season, Utah led the nation in pass efficiency defense.

"Every year is different. It depends on how people are attacking you, how the dynamics of every game changes and whether you're ahead or behind," Andersen explained.

The Utes, he added, have been solid in meeting challenges. Andersen noted that they still have two good tests (San Diego State, BYU) and a bowl game ahead of them.

All follow a stellar finish against TCU.

"They did a very nice job of coming back in another adverse situation and handled it," Andersen said. "This has been a great group to coach."

Utes on the air

No. 8 Utah (10-0, 6-0) at San Diego State (1-9, 0-6)

Qualcomm Stadium

Saturday, 6 p.m. (MT)

TV: The mtn.

Radio: 700 AM

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E-mail: dirk@desnews.com