The Utah Tech Trailblazers football team is gearing up for the 2023 season, and fans are eagerly anticipating the upcoming games. As part of the Western Athletic Conference (WAC), the Trailblazers are looking to make a strong impression in their second season as a Division I program. In this article, we'll delve into the Utah Tech football roster, highlighting key players, coaching staff, and the team's overall prospects for the 2023 season.
Coaching Staff
The Utah Tech Trailblazers are led by Head Coach Paul Peterson, who enters his second season at the helm. Peterson brings a wealth of experience, having served as an assistant coach at various NCAA programs, including Oregon State and Sacramento State. His coaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of building a strong team culture, with a focus on discipline, hard work, and accountability.
Peterson is supported by a talented coaching staff, including:
- Offensive Coordinator: Kris Peterson
- Defensive Coordinator: Ryon McCallister
- Special Teams Coordinator: Alex Hertz
Offense
The Utah Tech offense is expected to be led by quarterback Kobe Tracy, who returns for his second season as the team's starter. Tracy showed promise in his rookie season, throwing for over 1,500 yards and 10 touchdowns.
The Trailblazers' receiving corps is deep and talented, with returnees like Brandon Schenks and Jeper Van Rijn expected to make significant contributions. The team also welcomes several new faces, including transfer wide receiver, Jaelen Smith, who joins the program from UCLA.
Utah Tech's running game will be anchored by sophomore tailback, Monte McGary, who impressed in his freshman season with over 400 yards rushing. The team also returns veteran linemen, including tackle, Brian Jensen, and guard, Taipele Toga.
Defense
The Utah Tech defense will be led by senior linebacker, Payton Miller, who returns as one of the team's top tacklers. Miller is joined by fellow linebacker, Austin Chapman, who transferred to the program from Brigham Young University.
The Trailblazers' secondary is also expected to be a strength, with returnees like cornerback, Lavelle Hawkins, and safety, Alex Hines. The team also welcomes new faces, including transfer safety, Na' Tyler, who joins the program from the University of Arizona.
Special Teams
Utah Tech's special teams unit will be led by kicker, Josh Amos, who returns for his second season as the team's starter. Amos showed promise in his rookie season, converting on 75% of his field goal attempts.
Punter, Gage Wirick, also returns for his second season, after averaging over 40 yards per punt in his freshman campaign.
2023 Season Schedule
The Utah Tech Trailblazers will face a challenging schedule in the 2023 season, with matchups against several top-ranked opponents. Here's a look at the team's schedule:
- September 2: vs. BYU Cougars
- September 9: vs. Utah State Aggies
- September 16: vs. Idaho State Bengals
- September 23: at Arizona Wildcats
- September 30: vs. Tarleton State Texans
- October 7: at Abilene Christian Wildcats
- October 14: vs. Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks
- October 21: at Sam Houston Bearkats
- October 28: vs. Lamar Cardinals
- November 4: at Central Arkansas Bears
- November 11: vs. Dixie State Trailblazers
Gallery of Utah Tech Football Players
FAQ Section
What is the Utah Tech Trailblazers' football schedule for the 2023 season?
+The Utah Tech Trailblazers will face a challenging schedule in the 2023 season, with matchups against several top-ranked opponents. You can find the full schedule above.
Who is the head coach of the Utah Tech Trailblazers football team?
+The head coach of the Utah Tech Trailblazers football team is Paul Peterson.
What conference does the Utah Tech Trailblazers football team compete in?
+The Utah Tech Trailblazers football team competes in the Western Athletic Conference (WAC).
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the Utah Tech Trailblazers football roster for the 2023 season. As the team prepares to take on the challenges of the Western Athletic Conference, fans can expect an exciting and action-packed season. Be sure to follow the team's progress and show your support by attending games and cheering on the Trailblazers!