The Utah Utes open the 2025 season against a familiar foe, traveling to face former Pac‑12 rival UCLA on Saturday, August 30, at 10 p.m. Both programs finished 5–7 in 2024 and are looking to regain footing ahead of challenging conference slates. For Utah, it’s the start of Kyle Whittingham’s 21st season at the helm as the Utes aim to bounce back from their worst campaign since 2013.
Saturday’s season opener between Utah and UCLA will air nationally on FOX, giving the Utes a prime-time spotlight to kick off their second season competing in the Big 12 Conference. Utah enters the matchup as 5.5-point favorites with the over/under set at 51.5 total points. Here are two key players to watch in this game, followed by the top storylines for each team, and a prediction from Heartland College Sports.
Two Key Players to Watch
Devon Dampier (QB, Utah)
The Devon Dampier era is set to begin at Utah after the dynamic quarterback transferred in from New Mexico this offseason. In 2024, Dampier threw for 2,768 yards and 12 touchdowns while emerging as one of the nation’s top dual-threat threats, adding 1,166 rushing yards and 19 scores on the ground. His explosiveness and mobility bring a new dimension to Utah’s offense under first-year coordinator Jason Beck. If he settles in quickly, Dampier could be the spark the Utes need to bounce back and contend in the Big 12.
Jaivian Thomas (RB, UCLA)
If head coach DeShaun Foster wants to take some pressure off quarterback Nico Iamaleava, sophomore running back Jaivian Thomas could be poised for a breakout performance. In 2024, Thomas logged 100 carries for 626 yards and seven touchdowns, flashing explosiveness and vision in limited action. With a year of experience under his belt and a more prominent role expected, Thomas could become the engine of UCLA’s ground game. If he finds success early against Utah’s front, it will open up the offense and ease Iamaleava’s transition into the starting role.
Two Key Storylines
Nico Iamaleava Leads UCLA’s New Look
Former Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava is set to make his long-awaited debut as UCLA’s starter, bringing high expectations to the Bruins’ offense. Head coach DeShaun Foster is counting on the former five-star prospect to ignite a unit that ranked ninth in the Pac-12 in passing last season. In 2024 with the Volunteers, Iamaleava threw for 2,616 yards and 19 touchdowns while limiting mistakes with just five interceptions. For UCLA to knock off a well-balanced Utah squad, Iamaleava will need to get comfortable quickly and take control of the offense from the opening snap.
Utah’s Offensive Line Anchors High Expectations
Utah enters 2025 with one of the most experienced and physical offensive lines in the Big 12, and that unit could be the difference in Saturday’s opener. Anchored by standout tackles Spencer Fano and Caleb Lomu, the Utes’ front has drawn praise for its cohesion and expectation in 2025. With a dual-threat quarterback like Dampier stepping in, Utah’s ability to establish the run and protect the pocket will be critical. Against a completely overhauled UCLA defense, the Utes’ offensive line could set the tone early and give Utah the edge in a game where line-of-scrimmage play may decide the outcome.
Prediction: Utah 28, UCLA 24
Utah’s experience and advantage along the offensive line could be the difference in this high-profile matchup. Both teams are breaking in new starting quarterbacks. Still, the existing chemistry between Devon Dampier and offensive coordinator Jason Beck, carried over from their time at New Mexico, could make Utah’s transition smoother and more efficient from the opening snap. This game will be a battle, but the Utes have a real opportunity to deliver a statement win on the road.
