Defensive coordinator Gary Andersen's hiring at Utah State has left the Utah Utes feeling a bit blue.

"It's kind of a bittersweet thing. Coach Andersen is a great coach. He's had a lot of influence on my college football career, and I'm sad to see him go," said junior linebacker Mike Wright. "But at the same time, I'm happy for him.

"A head coaching job is kind of something he has always wanted. So for him to get this opportunity to go help and rebuild a Utah State program is probably something that he's really looking forward to do.

"I'm happy for him," he continued. "But at the same time, I'm sad to see him go."

So describes the team Andersen is leaving behind.

"It's a good thing for him," said junior safety Joe Dale. "We're happy to have had him as our coach."

Andersen's departure didn't really come as a surprise to the Utes' players. After guiding a defense that helped Utah go 12-0 and reach the Bowl Championship Series, his stock was high.

"I think it's well-deserved. I think he's proven to be an elite coach in the country. We all knew it was just a matter of time before somebody went after him," said senior quarterback and team captain Brian Johnson.

"So we wish him the best and hope he gets the opportunity to coach in the bowl game. He's been a huge part of this program and a huge part of what we do. We'll miss him."

Johnson and his teammates want "Coach A" to help coach them in next month's BCS game. Andersen and Kyle Whittingham are scheduled to meet today and determine if that would be possible.

The players have made their opinion known — loud and clear. They want Andersen to be with them.

"Most definitely. He helped us earn it," Dale said. "He helped us get to where we are now ... I think he should."

Wright agreed but isn't sure it's possible.

"I hope he's still involved with our team and coaches in the bowl game. But realistically, I don't think that's going to happen," he said. "I think he will probably have to get out on the recruiting trail. So it's going to be sad to see him go. But hopefully we'll get our coaching situation taken care of and we'll be able to focus on the bowl game and move forward."

The future is bright for Utah's nationally-ranked defense. The Utes will have nine returning starters next season.

"I think coach Whittingham is going to stay within the system. Whoever he hires is probably going to keep the same defense. And so I'm not too worried about that," Wright said. "I have confidence coach Whit will find a more than capable replacement for coach Andersen. I'm not too worried about our coaching staff. Like I said, it's just sad to see coach Andersen go."