While the Utes finished with their best ranking since the 2008 undefeated season, there will always be a little "what-if" for Utah, which was ranked as high as No. 3 this year after a 6-0 start. But still, it was better than expected: After being voted to finish 5th in the Pac-12 South, the Utes tied USC for the best league record (the Trojans advanced to the conference title game thanks to tie-breakers). USA Today gave Utah's season an A-minus grade, alongside teams like Florida, Notre Dame and Ohio State.
So far Utah hasn't gotten much early love for next season, thanks to turnover at quarterback, running back, receiver, linebacker and punter — ESPN omitted the Utes from its "Way Too Early Top 25" released after the championship.