Junior Tafuna Pulls Down Second Career Interception Against Arizona State

TEMPE, Ariz. – Utah Football defensive tackle Junior Tafuna lucked into his second career interception in the first quarter against the Arizona State Sun Devils on Friday.

After heavy pressure forced the Sun Devils QB to make an errant throw, the ball wound up right in Tafuna’s hands and he held on for the pick.

Fighting off the block AND snagging the one-handed INT? Just another day in the office Junior Tafuna 🤷‍♂️#Big12FB | 📺 ESPN pic.twitter.com/ewtGnWJ8Kk

— Big 12 Conference (@Big12Conference) October 12, 2024

You don’t see defensive lineman pulling down interceptions very often. Funny enough, it wasn’t the first for Tafuna.

In non-conference play against Southern Utah in 2022, the Taylorsville native had his first pick.

With both the eye test and the opponent considered, the senior-year interception easily takes the cake.

BIG MAN INT‼️#GoUtes pic.twitter.com/8ZQx9sLAy9

— Utah Football (@Utah_Football) October 12, 2024

The Utes were unable to punch in six off of the turnover. However, they were still able to build on their lead with a field goal to go up 6-0.

Unfortunately for Tafuna and Utah, the highlight play was slightly overshadowed by Rising being injured on the first drive.

He remained in the game but was walking gingerly and looked somewhat apprehensive.

Three Game Day Thoughts From Utes Insider Steve Bartle 

1. Believe… it, when we see it. 

According to Action Network’s Brett McMurphy, Cam Rising is set to make his return and will start against Arizona State.

“Utah QB Cam Rising will start Friday at Arizona State, sources told Action Network. Rising hasn’t played since Sept. 7 vs. Baylor, when he injured the ring finger on his throwing hand, requiring stitches. Rising has missed Utah’s last 3 games.” – Brett McMurphy

According to multiple sources, Rising assumed nearly all of the practice reps since Tuesday, including yesterday’s final walkthrough before the team hit the road.

Despite the report, many won’t believe it until they see it. Typical indicators all point to his return, but fans are rightfully hesitant after the last couple of weeks.

𝐁𝐄𝐋𝐈𝐄𝐕𝐄 pic.twitter.com/S6IpTua2Ui

— Utah Football (@Utah_Football) October 11, 2024

2. A tough challenge, could be tougher

Kenny Dillingham made improving the run game a major point of focus this offseason. It’s paid off.  Arizona State has a fantastic running back in Cam Skatteboo and a much more physical offensive line than last year. They also have a dual-threat quarterback that will demand the defense’s attention.

So, Utah will face one of the top rushing attacks in the Big 12 tonight. Utah will likely be without a few key contributors which will make the challenge even tougher. Limiting the run is still the top priority in this game and it will demand the best of this defensive unit.

Van Fillinger has to come up big tonight for the Utes. The Sun Devils have found a lot of success running off the right side of the line, Fillinger needs to be disciplined and stout.

Tomorrow’s matchup with Arizona State is an important one for Utah. Here are the three key factors in a win for the Utes. #GoUtes https://t.co/HJLYWMcjHC

— Steve Bartle (@BartleKSLsports) October 10, 2024

3. Dorian Singer vs Keith Abney

Looking at the numbers, Abney has faired ok this season. He’s allowed 13-of-24 targets for completions, which has generated 202 yards and one touchdown. Abney doesn’t have an interception but has been credited with 4 pass breakups. He also has been flagged for defensive pass interference 4 times this season.

Dorian Singer has emerged as the top pass-catching option for the Utes. He’s totaled 26 receptions for 355 yards and has provided a big play presence on the outside. He’s also drawn 3 defensive pass-interference penalties this season.

Singer should play a big role regardless of who is lined up across from him but Utah could look for this matchup specifically throughout the night.

For the top Utah Football storylines, follow Utah insider Steve Bartle or check out his coverage on KSLSports.com.

Chandler Holt is a co-host of the Jazz Notes podcast, a Locals In The NFL Insider, and Digital Sports Producer for KSLSports.com. Follow Chandler on X for Utah Jazz and Locals In The NFL updates.

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