Announcement: Utah Coach Kyle Whittingham Provides Shocking Update on Utah’s Next Starting QB: Cameron Rising vs. Isaac Wilson

Official word of Isaac Wilson, Zach Wilson’s brother, starting for Utah amid Cameron Rising’s injury didn’t come until the minutes before Saturday’s top-15 game at Oklahoma State. That didn’t stop the true freshman QB from leading a ranked Big 12 road win. For his efforts, he is the 247Sports True Freshman of the Week.

In a surprising announcement, Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham has provided an update regarding the starting quarterback competition for the season, pitting veteran Cameron Rising against promising freshman Isaac Wilson. This development has left fans and analysts buzzing as the Utes prepare for what promises to be a pivotal season.

 

The Quarterback Battle

Cameron Rising, a seasoned player and last year’s starter, has been a key figure for the Utes, leading the team to significant victories. However, injuries have plagued his recent performances, raising questions about his ability to reclaim his starting role. On the other hand, Isaac Wilson, the younger brother of former NFL quarterback Zach Wilson, has quickly made a name for himself during training camp, showcasing his talent and potential as a future star.

 

In Whittingham’s update, he acknowledged the fierce competition between the two quarterbacks. “Both Cameron and Isaac have shown us what they can do, and we believe it’s a matter of who can step up and lead this team effectively,” he stated. “Cameron brings experience, while Isaac brings a fresh perspective and energy.”

Isaac Wilson’s Emergence

The official word did not come down until a few minutes before the game. Utah seventh-year senior quarterback Cameron Rising warmed up, making every attempt to come back from a hand injury that cost him the Utes’ game the week prior against Utah State. But Rising did not feel healthy enough to play. Thus, in the minutes leading up to kickoff, Isaac Wilson got word that he’d make his second career start — in Stillwater, Oklahoma, against the college football’s No. 14 team in the Oklahoma State Cowboys.

It worked out for the true freshman signal-caller. Utah won 22-19 at Oklahoma State, where Wilson became the Utes’ first-ever true freshman quarterback to beat a top-25 team.

His production on the afternoon was uneven, completing 17 of 29 passes for 207 yards and one touchdown to two interceptions. He also ran for 41 yards on six carries. But it was more than enough as the Utes nearly doubled (456 to 285) the Cowboys’ yardage total — not to mention time of possession (42 minutes) — and made a statement in the program’s first Big 12 game.

“Very proud of (our) freshman quarterback,” said Utah coach Kyle Whittingham. “When you put things into perspective, you come into a No. 14 team in the country’s home stadium (with) a freshman Q, true freshman Q, and come away with a win, that’s pretty impressive.”

“I liked that he just kept hanging in there, never got down on himself,” Whittinham added of Wilson. “Threw a couple of picks, didn’t flinch. You saw his ability to run. He ripped off that 40- or 50-yard run — that was huge, at that point in time. Dipped his shoulder and made another tough run down in the red zone that got us a first down. He’s just a competitor. He’s a competitor, just like Cam is. They’re both just complete, competitive guys that want to win and very confident guys — both of ’em.”

 

What This Means for Utah

The decision on who will start at quarterback will have significant implications for Utah’s season. If Rising can regain his form and prove he’s healthy, he offers the Utes a wealth of experience and leadership. However, if Wilson earns the nod, it could signal a new direction for the program, building towards the future with a talented young quarterback at the helm.

 

Fans are eagerly awaiting the final decision, as both players bring unique strengths to the table. Whittingham has stated that the coaching staff will continue to evaluate both quarterbacks in practice leading up to the season opener.

 

As the Utes gear up for a challenging season, the quarterback battle between Cameron Rising and Isaac Wilson remains one of the most closely watched storylines. Coach Kyle Whittingham’s update adds another layer of intrigue as fans speculate on who will lead Utah into the new campaign. Whichever direction the coaching staff chooses, the decision will undoubtedly shape the future of Utah football.