Utah Promotes Morgan Scalley to Head Coach Following Whittingham’s Departure

In a significant transition for the Utah Utes football program, Morgan Scalley has been promoted from defensive coordinator to head coach. This decision follows the announcement by Kyle Whittingham, who will step down after 21 seasons leading the team. Scalley, who has been with the Utes coaching staff since 2007, will officially take the helm following the team’s appearance in the Las Vegas Bowl against Nebraska on December 31, 2023.

Scalley has spent the past ten seasons as Utah’s defensive coordinator, guiding a unit that has consistently ranked among the best nationally. This season, the Utes are in the top 20 for passing efficiency defense, total interceptions with 14, and scoring defense, allowing an average of 18.7 points per game.

A Legacy of Excellence

In a statement regarding his promotion, Scalley expressed his deep connection to the program, noting, “Being a part of the Utah football program was a childhood dream of mine that has turned into an incredible 25-year journey that I am blessed to say is continuing.” He emphasized the invaluable mentorship he has received throughout his career, stating that he has gained much more than just tactical knowledge from his experiences with the team and its players.

Scalley’s connection to the Utes goes beyond coaching; he was a standout safety for the team from 2001 to 2004. Under the guidance of coach Urban Meyer, he played a pivotal role in leading the Utes to the 2004 Fiesta Bowl and an undefeated season. His accolades during that time include being named the 2004 Mountain West co-Defensive Player of the Year and earning second-team All-American honors.

Over the past decade, Scalley has built a reputation for developing a rugged and physical defensive style. His defense has consistently ranked in the top half of the conference for total defense, finishing second nationally in 2019 and first in the Pac-12. Notably, the Utes also claimed the title for the top rushing defense in the Pac-12 five times during their final eight seasons in the conference.

Support from Athletic Leadership

Utah’s athletic director, Mark Harlan, praised Scalley’s qualifications, stating, “Morgan Scalley has proven over the course of his outstanding coaching and playing career at the University of Utah that he is uniquely equipped to take over as the program’s next leader.” Harlan noted Scalley’s extensive knowledge of Utah football and his passion for the university position him to uphold the program’s traditions of success.

As Scalley prepares to step into his new role, he inherits a program with a strong foundation and high expectations. With a history of excellence in both coaching and playing, he aims to lead the Utes into a new era following Whittingham’s long and successful tenure. The upcoming Las Vegas Bowl will serve as both a farewell to Whittingham and a new beginning for Scalley and the Utah Utes football program.