Utah cornerback Kenan Johnson is out for the rest of the season after a leg injury

Utah opened the 2024 season with a 49-0 win over Southern Utah on Thursday. However, the good start brought bad news this week. Utes cornerback Kenan Johnson suffered a season-ending lower leg injury in the first half of the game.

Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham confirmed the severity of Johnson's injury on Monday, noting that while Johnson's season is over, he can return to the team next year if he wants to. Before his injury, the Georgia Tech transfer had recorded three tackles and was expected to play a key role on defense.

In Johnson's absence, Utah will rely on Smith Snowden, Cam Calhoun and Scooby Davis to fill the void at cornerback. Snowden, who previously played the nickel position, showed versatility and performed well on the interior. Davis, who caught an interception against Southern Utah, made solid contributions, while Calhoun, a transfer from Michigan, is expected to return to action this week. Whittingham mentioned that the coaching staff would evaluate different configurations in practice to determine the best lineup going forward.

Three takeaways from No. 12 Utah's win over Southern Utah

On offense, the return of quarterback Cam Rising and tight end Brant Kuithe was a highlight. The duo showed their chemistry by throwing three touchdown passes in the first half, underscoring their importance to the team's success. Rising's ability to find Kuithe in key moments was crucial, reinforcing the dynamic nature of their partnership.

In addition, wide receiver Dijon Stanley emerged as a new offensive player, catching three passes for 150 yards, including two long touchdown passes. His performance added another dimension to Utah's potent offense.

Utah faces a bigger challenge as they host Baylor, a repeat of last season's hard-fought 20-13 win in Waco. Whittingham knows they need to step up their game as Baylor is a formidable opponent looking to avenge last year's loss.