The Utes Hang On to Beat Air Force In OT

It was a nail-biter for fans on both sides.

Fans expected the usual. And they got it.

The tough, competitive match-up between Utah and Air Force is exciting year-in and year-out. As usual, this one came down to the wire.

With the Utes up 16-10 early in the third quarter, they almost seemed to go to sleep on offense. They would not score again during regulation; and even more frustrating for the Utes was that each of their remaining possessions they went three and out. 

Just when Utah seemed to nap, offensively; the offense of Air Force, came alive.

Air Force would score on three of their last six possessions, after Utah's last field goal. They brought the game to a tie and chewed up alot of time on the clock, forcing the game into overtime.

If there was ever a time in the game for the Utes to wake-up and play, this was it.

There was a lot on the line for Utah. A win here would keep their bowl game hopes alive, while a loss would open the door for other teams anxious for an opportunity.

The Utes got the ball first, and rather than hit the snooze button again, they played to win.

They completed an eight play drive, converting twice on third down, with a 1-yd touchdown rush by Eddie Wide. Air Force could not convert on their chance.

All year we've got in the habit of comparing this year's squad with last year's undefeated Rose Bowl Champions. That's not always fair, but it's easy to do from a fan's perspective. Tonight when the Utes needed it, they showed us something familiar. They responded with a resounding win, cutting it close, but playing their best in the final moments of the game.