{
  "id": 906218,
  "title": "Quarterbacks Devon Dampier and Byrd Ficklin teaming up to power Utah’s offense again",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/14/quarterbacks-devon-dampier-and-byrd-ficklin-teaming-up-to-power-utahs-906218",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-14T20:42:30.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/quarterbacks-devon-dampier-byrd-ficklin-204230023.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "SALT LAKE CITY — Utah's offense will feature a tandem of quarterbacks in the upcoming season, with Devon Dampier vying for the starting position while Byrd Ficklin serves as his backup. The decision to share the quarterback role stems from the success of last season, when the duo contributed to the Utes' top overall offense in the Big 12. Head coach Morgan Scalley plans to utilize both players extensively, drawing inspiration from last season's offensive coordinator, Jason Beck. This strategy allows the Utes to exploit their defensive weaknesses and maximize the talents of both quarterbacks. Last year, Dampier and Ficklin accounted for 66% of Utah's total yardage and 39% of the team's rushing yardage. Both players expressed a desire to further develop their skills as complete quarterbacks. Dampier, who overcame a sports hernia last season, aims to enhance his passing game, while Ficklin seeks to become a more versatile playmaker. Their competitive spirit and mutual encouragement have fostered a beneficial relationship, driving each other towards success.",
  "summary": "Devon Dampier and Byrd Ficklin have both returned to the Utes, looking to build on successful debut campaigns.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Winnipeg Free Press",
        "title": "Quarterbacks Devon Dampier and Byrd Ficklin teaming up to power Utah’s offense again",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/14/quarterbacks-devon-dampier-and-byrd-ficklin-teaming-up-to-power-utahs",
        "published": "2026-08-14T13:10:27.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}