If there was any concern that Utah’s football team would not be able to make big plays with quarterback Cameron Rising still recovering from an ACL tear, the first play of the season did a lot to alleviate those concerns.
Utah opened up its season on Thursday with a home game against Florida. The Utes got off to a good start defensively, forcing a three-and-out from the Gators on the game’s opening possession. After a Florida punt, Utah started its first offensive possession of the game and season on its own 30. That possession would not last long.
On their first offensive play, the Utes called upon backup quarterback Bryson Barnes to go deep. He answered the challenge. Receiver Money Parks had a step on cornerback Jason Marshall Jr., while Florida safety R.J. Moten was late in getting over. Parks got the pass in stride and when the two defenders fell to the ground, the receiver ran into the end zone unchallenged, completing the 70-yard touchdown reception.
Bryson Barnes and Money Parks connect for a 70-yard touchdown vs Florida on Utah's first offensive play of the 2023 season! 🏈💣💰 pic.twitter.com/wbrmsHv3ul
— The Comeback (@thecomeback) September 1, 2023
The great start from Utah, as well as the poor start from Florida, got the attention of college football fans.
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50 yard strike on the money. AMAZING! https://t.co/IQkeWwOaw7
— Daniel McCay (@danmccay) September 1, 2023
Every single offensive play against Florida, in non conference road games away from their state, in the last 30+ years has gone for a 70+ yard touchdown
— Jake Shapiro (@Shapalicious) September 1, 2023
DUDE FROM THE PIG FARM HAS GOT A CANNON
FIRST PLAY TOUCHDAHN TO MONEY PARKS FOR UTAH
WHAT A START
— Football (@BostonConnr) September 1, 2023
1. My gosh I missed you, college football
2. My gosh I missed you, wagering on college football
3. Over watch https://t.co/lK2Vj5Rreo— IYKYK (@jontificate) September 1, 2023
Allowing a 70 yard TD on the first play of the season is embarrassing lol
— Bryce 🎸 (@MileHighMims) September 1, 2023
Utah is in its final Pac-12 season and will be part of an expanded Big XII during the 2024 season. The Utes have won consecutive Pac-12 titles and if the offense can do this throughout the season, a third may be coming.
[Photo Credit: ESPN]
