Utah, West Virginia Football Teams Face Key Player Absences Ahead of Big 12 Clash

West Virginia's football team fell to Utah 48-14, with significant rotations on both offense and defense, including playing more than one quarterback for the fifth consecutive game. West Virginia's starting quarterback Nicco Marchiol was ruled out for the game due to a foot injury, with Jaylen Henderson expected to lead the offense. The team also faced other injury challenges, including running back Cyncir Bowers being officially out and Tye Edwards listed as questionable. Utah, meanwhile, saw two defensive players, Paul Fitzgerald and Aliki Vimahi, ruled out for the matchup. Utah's coach Kyle Whittingham expressed frustration with the lack of explosive plays from his wide receivers, noting only Ryan Davis has been a consistent threat so far this season. Meanwhile, the Cincinnati Bengals face injury setbacks with tight end Noah Fant and defensive end Shemar Stewart ruled out for their upcoming game, forcing increased roles for other players like Mike Gesicki and Drew Sample.