Utah Utes' football: Secondary still has speed, talent

When it comes to replacing Sean Smith and Brice McCain, the Utah Utes aren't exactly painted into a corner.

They've still got plenty of speed and talent in the defensive backfield.

Senior R.J. Stanford and sophomore Brandon Burton top the depth chart at cornerback as the Utes wrapped up their first week of spring ball.

"They're very talented. Both of them are sub-4.4 guys," said Utah coach Kyle Whittingham. "They've got all the physical tools that they need to succeed at that position, and we expect them to pick up where Brice and Sean left off."

Stanford, a 5-foot-11, 184-pound senior who started at nickel back last season, has high 4.2 speed. Burton, a 6-foot, 184-pound sophomore, is a low-4.3 guy.

"We've been working pretty good. So I think we'll pick up the slack from last year's corners," said Burton, who made three tackles in limited action as a freshman. "We've got big shoes to fill in Brice and Sean, but I think we can do it."

Whittingham said the Utes have little choice in the matter, especially with the team's man-coverage scheme that pits athlete against athlete. Whoever steps in must simply continue to get the job done.

"It's an ability position," said Whittingham. "The learning curve is not real steep at corner. It's just a physically challenging position."

And the competition promises to be keen.

"We've just got to keep working," said Stanford. "It's an everyday battle. We're out here always competing."

While Stanford and Burton are currently the frontrunners, they're expected to be pushed by several others for the starting jobs. J.C. transfer Kamaron Yancy and senior Justin Jones are currently listed on the depth chart.

Then there's nickel backs Damilyn Tanner and Lamar Chapman. Others will be in the mix as well when fall camp rolls around.

"The system doesn't change. ... We've just got to pick up the rifle," said Stanford, who made 41 tackles last season at nickel. "We've got players that can fill the spots. I feel confident in our corners as well as the coach."

Speaking of the coach, J.D. Williams is Utah's new cornerbacks coach. The longtime NFL player and Pac-10 assistant has blended in well.

"J.D.'s doing a nice job. They're responding well to him," said Whittingham. "He's got a ton of experience and a great background. He's a good addition to our staff."