Utah · Big 12Utah’s Young Defensive Tackles Face Run-Defense Questions After 2025 Struggles
Utah’s interior defensive line enters fall camp under pressure to correct last season’s problems against the run. The group is young, and its development will shape whether the Utes can prevent another season of opposing backs finding too much room inside.
AUG 24, 2026
01 · The NewsWhat Happened
Joe Coles wrote Sunday that Utah’s defensive tackle room enters 2026 looking for answers after a difficult run-defense season. The story points to the Utes’ struggles against Kansas State running back Joe Jackson, whose successful runs became a clear reminder of the problems Utah faced inside. Karson Kaufusi was pictured working at defensive tackle during fall camp on Aug. 4. Utah’s young interior group now has to show that last season’s issues can be corrected through better tackling and stronger play against the run. The specific depth chart, rotation and statistical totals were not provided.