Moving on from an era of consistent injuries at quarterback has happened with the Utah Utes. Devon Dampier was one of the more electric quarterbacks last season at New Mexico, and now goes into a system where he has a big upgrade in talent around him. UCLA was one of the slowest offenses out the gate last season, where they scored sixteen points or less in their first five games. Look for a shaky debut from Nico Iamaleava as Utah gets by with a win of six point or more.

Pac-12 After Dark? Nowadays this is a Big 12 vs. Big Ten matchup, even if it's being played in the old time slot for the Pac's late-night games. There is cautious optimism in Salt Lake City that Kyle Whittingham solved the QB dilemma that has plagued the Utes the past couple of seasons by luring electric dual-threat QB Devin Damper from New Mexico. Yet they're apparently very pleased in Westwood too at the work in fall camp from Nico "Mr NIL" Iamaleava, now in control of the Bruin offense that hopes to have more bite for new OC Tino Sunseri, in from Indiana. The Bruins showed plenty of scrap for DeShaun Foster last season and that will come in handy tonight. Play UCLA

The Utes should be a prime Big 12 contender this season with a much improved offense under new OC Jason Beck and QB Devon Dampier, both previously at New Mexico. While I believe UCLA will show growth in year 2 under Deshaun Foster, Utah has a massive edge on the lines of scrimmage and I think they win comfortably. I feel more comfortable playing this on the money line than laying 6 points but it's week 1 and I'm just glad college football is back! Utah 31, UCLA 21.

Give me the home dog in this Pac-12 after dark throwback matchup. Nico Iamaleava is a proven starter at the Power 4 level and is at home. While Utah has promise, Utes QB Devon Dampier is coming from New Mexico. It’s worth taking a chance on the Bruins' quarterback and his higher ceiling, and rely on their defense to force a few turnovers as well. The SportsLine Model makes it a pick ‘em.