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Quarterback Devon Dampier launched a spiraling pass that found its routine target, senior wide receiver Ryan Davis, something that became well-practiced last season in New Mexico.
However, this time around, the duo is making waves in Salt Lake City rather than Albuquerque.
Reflecting on their time at New Mexico, Dampier and Davis wrapped up an impressive season together. Davis managed to secure 54 catches, accumulating 747 yards, and knocking down three touchdowns. Had Davis achieved these numbers here in Utah for the 2024 season, he would have been the top receiver for the Utes. Coaches are holding out hope that he can deliver even stronger results in 2025.
Wide receiver is a big question mark going into the new season, with every starting spot open for contention. Dorian Singer’s NCAA appeal for another year didn’t go through, leaving a vacuum for the standout receiver role—at least, for now.
“The field is open. We’re letting the players show who’s consistent, making plays, doing the right things—earning trust. I call it the ‘circle of trust,’” stated Offensive Coordinator Jason Beck at the spring practice kick-off.
As Beck continues to navigate this wide-open field, he emphasizes the importance of players proving their reliability every day.
Sophomores Daidren Zipperer and Zacharyus Williams had notable performances towards last season’s end. They’re likely contenders from last year’s squad, but they’re joined by newcomers like Davis and transfers—Creed Whittemore from Mississippi State and Otto Tia from Utah State. Justin Stevenson from Wyoming is also eyeing valuable playing time.
With many fresh faces, it might be a while before the pecking order becomes clear.
“We’ve got confidence in several players,” Utah Coach Kyle Whittingham commented recently. “Now it’s about who will consistently deliver and become the go-to guy. That needs to come forward.”
Davis stands out as a front-runner to be the team’s top receiver, given his prior experience with coach Beck’s system at New Mexico, his established rapport with Dampier, and his veteran leadership.
“Having played last year under Coach Beck and Coach Simon with Coach Mendenhall at New Mexico was a great opportunity,” Davis shared. “I’ve built solid relationships with them and with Devon.”
When Beck, Simon, and Dampier transitioned west to Salt Lake City, Davis wasn’t far behind, crediting his connection with them as a major reason for moving to Utah.
Dampier and Davis’s bond extends beyond the pitch; they share meals nearly every evening.
“We regularly check in on each other,” Davis noted. “Weekends mean hanging out. The connection we have on and off the field is awesome.”
Davis praised Dampier’s explosive playmaking, highlighting the quarterback’s uncanny knack for pulling off what’s seemingly impossible.
With Dampier’s ability to extend plays, receivers must always be alert and ready to improvise.
“If you’re on a glance route and miss the initial play, and he starts moving, it’s time to scramble and find the open space—Dev will find you,” detailed Davis. “Expect the unexpected. When he rolls left and then shifts all the way right, be ready to spot the opening, and he’ll deliver.”
Beck’s offense, much to Davis’s liking, provides receivers with plenty of leeway, posing multiple options for each route—which complements Dampier’s natural play-extension abilities.
“I love Coach Beck’s offense. It demands intelligence and awareness of different scenarios. Knowing the defense’s moves dictates your route choice,” Davis explained. “Being on the same wavelength with the quarterback is crucial. The ability to choose routes brings freedom, making it enjoyable to locate openings and trust Devon to send the ball your way, right where it should be caught.”
Hailing from Blessed Trinity Catholic High in Georgia, Davis spent three seasons at UAB before moving to New Mexico for the 2023 and 2024 seasons. Playing alongside Dampier and under Mendenhall allowed his game to flourish, shifting from a handful of touches at UAB to being one of Dampier’s key targets at New Mexico.
The 5-foot-11, 181-pound wideout was known for his reliability, dropping just three of his 87 targets last year and achieving over 100 yards in two games, including a matchup against Auburn.
Playing under Coach Mendenhall, coupled with rigorous training under Coach Simon and Coach Beck, has taught Davis to approach each game with a growth-driven mentality.
As a seasoned member of Utah’s receiving group, Davis has embraced a leadership role, assisting newcomers in mastering Beck’s offensive strategies. Beck has positioned Davis as an example during training sessions, allowing him to guide the newer receivers.
“Ryan’s been that leader for the receivers. He’s already handling the intricacies of the offense,” Dampier affirmed.
After covering the distance to Salt Lake City, one thing remains evident—the strong bond between Dampier and Davis. Ute fans can expect the duo to make big plays come fall.
“Ryan’s doing an excellent job—he’s already familiar with the offense, much like Devon and running back NaQuari Rogers,” acknowledged Whittingham. “He’s consistent in showing up, putting in hard work, and is set to be a significant asset to our plans.”
In case you missed it:
Utah gymnastics kicks off the NCAA regionals Thursday, setting off their drive for a national title. Keep an eye on the Red Rocks this postseason!
From the archives:
Extra points on our players and their pivotal roles await your gaze, sharing insights from Devon Dampier’s teammates and comments from Utah’s new QB offensive coordinator. Plus, understanding the legacy Gianna Kneepkens leaves at Utah and what her departure via the transfer portal signifies. Lastly, check out how Utes coach Alex Jensen’s new contract stacks up in the Big 12, courtesy of Deseret News.
