The Utah Utes have long been one of the best programs for polishing quarterback talent, producing stars like Alex Smith, Travis Wilson, and Tyler Huntley. However, as the 2025 college football season comes closer, one analyst believes a new young phenom is set to eclipse them all.
With the Utes aiming to rebound from a challenging year, their young quarterback has the potential to be their savior in the Big 12.
Can Devon Dampier Spark Utah Utes’ Comeback?
On a recent video on the On3 YouTube channel, host Cody Bellaire declared Utah quarterback Devon Dampier as his top pick to shine in 2025. Bellaire is betting all his chips on the young athlete,
“This is the quarterback I’m planting my flag on for the 2025 season. This is my sleeper,” Bellaire said. “… The University of Utah has never seen a caliber of athlete like this. That includes Alex Smith, that includes Travis Wilson, and that includes Tyler Huntley. They did not have the juice that Devon Dampier has in the run game.”
But it’s not just his legs; Dampier’s arm is just as effective. In his first year as a starter in 2024, he threw for nearly 3,000 yards and fell just 66 yards shy of 4,000 total offensive yards.
Bellaire’s bold prediction is based on Dampier’s rare athleticism and passing precision blend. His ability to evade defenders while delivering accurate throws makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses.
For a Utah program looking to reclaim its spot among college football’s best, Dampier represents a spark that could ignite a breakout season for the program.
Head coach Kyle Whittingham’s decision to hand the reins to Dampier shows that his team also has faith in him. Despite a tough 2024 season that drew criticism, Whittingham was ranked among the top Power Four coaches. His choice to build the offense around Dampier could be a risky play, but if it works, it will pay him nicely.
KEEP READING: Ranking the Top 25 Group of Five Players in 2025: Blake Horvath, Byrum Brown Headline the Elite
Dampier is not just a quarterback but an investment for the program’s future. However, this move hasn’t come without skepticism. Some analysts question whether Dampier can handle the pressure of leading a team, especially after Utah’s uneven performance last year. Nevertheless, Whittingham’s trust in his young quarterback speaks to his belief in Dampier’s potential to deliver.
Bellaire’s unwavering belief in Dampier as “the guy” for 2025, as well as Whittingham’s steady guidance and faith, all point towards an impressive season for the young athlete, proving that this sleeper pick is ready to wake up the college football world.
