Devon Dampier had a key decision to make right after the 2025 season ended. The Utah Utes were coming off of a Las Vegas Bowl win over Nebraska with several things up in the air. One of the biggest questions was Dampier's status in Salt Lake City.
The dual-threat quarterback could have entered the transfer portal and found another destination. There's no program in the country that would not have taken him. Especially after his outstanding production last season. However, Dampier had other plans. He stayed in Utah and never looked back.
Morgan Scalley can look back on this all now and reflect on retaining the Utes playmaker. One of the best decisions of his young head coaching career. Scalley had a heartfelt conversation with Dampier and the result was a difference maker for the Utes. Now six games into the 2026 season and Utah is on the right path at 5-0.
Last year was the toughest chapter of Dampier's journey. He wasn't fully healthy and dealt with injuries throughout the season. One thing he has proven in 2026 is his ability to fully play healthily. The sports hernia injury is no joke. It altered several attributes of Dampier's game. Not to mention he also dealt with an ankle injury.
As a runner, he was pulled down to stick in the pocket more. Now that he's healthy and back to a level of feeling comfortable, Dampier can show what he’s truly capable of doing on the field.
The Utes gained new offensive coordinator Kevin McGiven this year. But the scheme will be similar and cater to Dampier's strengths. The other thing he'll have to do this season is prove he's able to step out of Beck's shadow. Dampier has been with his coach every step of the way. The time is now for Dampier to put together the best NFL highlight reel.
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Everybody will be watching to see how he finishes what's likely his final season at Utah. This is the point in the season where the Utes need to play the role of spoiler. BYU plays Notre Dame before the Holy War. If the Cougars win the weekend and the Utes defeat them in the rivalry game to stay undefeated, watch out. The rest of the nation would be talking about what's happening in Utah?
The Utes travel to Boulder to face the Colorado Buffaloes on Saturday night. Dampier will be ready to shine on the road. Kickoff is scheduled for 10:15 p.m. ET on ESPN.