Utah Defensive Coordinator Morgan Scalley Has High Praise For The Defensive Line

Utah is poised to have another excellent defensive season this fall after ranking top 20 in points allowed per game last year. Defensive coordinator Morgan Scalley had high praise for his defensive linemen on Friday, expressing confidence in the group that's in place.

"It's not changed," Scalley said about his confidence in the defensive tackle spot. "I love the leadership that's coming in from that room with Keanu Tanuvasa and Junior Tafuna. We've got vets in that room so we should feel pretty good about it."

Scalley also said he loves the defensive end room, and the Utes will have the "opportunity to rush four and not necessarily have to bring pressure. We'll bring pressure depending on what we see from the offense, but it's nice to know we can get home with four."

Jonah Elliss led the team with 12 sacks and 16 tackles for loss last season, and the Denver Broncos selected him in the third round of the NFL Draft. However, Scalley named Van Fillinger, Connor O'Toole, and Logan Fano as players who will help ease the burden of that loss.

Head coach Kyle Whittingham has high confidence in Scalley, naming him as his official successor earlier this season for when he ultimately retires. For now, he'll continue leading an excellent defense poised to have a dominant defensive line.