Utah CB Smith Snowden Pulls Down Highlight Interception Off Bryson Barnes Throw

LOGAN, Utah – Utah cornerback Smith Snowden pulled down an insane interception near the goalline off a throw from former Ute QB Bryson Barnes.

Midway through the first quarter, Barnes looked to Kyrese White for six. White got his hands on the ball but Snowden ripped it out and got control before hitting the turf.

UNREAL pick by @SnowdenSmith 😱

📺 @CBSSportsNet #GoUtes pic.twitter.com/2yrd2XwbYP

— Utah Football (@Utah_Football) September 14, 2024

The first quarter of the rivalry matchup was ruled by both of the brothers’ defense.

Utah’s first drive was a three-and-out and when the Aggies got the ball back, the Utes had the highlight interception.

The pick was the first of Snowden’s collegiate career.

Wow, what a play by Smith Snowden! The ball skills and reaction to haul THAT in… great play.

— Steve Bartle (@BartleKSLsports) September 14, 2024

Snowden added two solo tackles in the first quarter.

The Utes’ next offensive drive also ended in a punt. The first began to wind down with neither side able to find the end zone. Utah kicked a field goal in the closing minutes of the quarter to take a 3-0 lead.

Three Game Day Thoughts From Utes Insider Steve Bartle

1. Bryson Barnes vs Utah Defense

If you listened to the Utah Blockcast with Keanu Tanuvasa this week, you know there is respect for the Utah State signal caller but Utah has a job to do.

And the job of the defense is to make things rather difficult for the Utah State quarterback.

Given Barnes’ time in the program, there is a deeper understanding of how things work at Utah. However, Utah also knows what Barnes does well and where he may struggle.

So, how Morgan Scalley approaches this game in terms of scheme and playcalling will be interesting. Don’t be surprised to see a much more aggressive game plan.

2. Utah aiming for a big day on the ground

There is a lot of excitement around Isaac Wilson and the opportunity to get an extended look at him. But today’s offensive attack will very likely be tilted toward a heavy rushing attack.

Kyle Whittingham and his staff will want to shorten this game as much as possible. The best way to do that will be through controlling the ball with the run game.

Micah Bernard finished last week 2 yards shy of 120 rushing yards. He and Mike Mitchell will be counted on to lead the way this week.

For Utah to have the sort of day they want, they will need a big day from the ground game.

It’s all smiles with the Utah QBs. pic.twitter.com/d8FS0EZnN4

— Steve Bartle (@BartleKSLsports) September 14, 2024

3. Success for Isaac Wilson

The biggest storyline in this game is the absence of veteran quarterback Cam Rising. Given what’s on the line for Utah this season, Rising is a vital piece to it all. He isn’t available for Utah today, which puts the spotlight on true freshman Isaac Wilson.

Wilson doesn’t need to be the hero. He doesn’t need to throw for 200-300 yards. He simply needs to execute the offense and take advantage of opportunities when they are there.

There will be easy looks for him. He will have chances to throw the ball down the field. It’s all up to him to take command, play with confidence, and execute to the best of his abilities.

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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