I don’t know why you are suprised. They had a 10-3 season last year and are expected to be better this year by every measure.
The only step back they’ll have is losing McCaffery and Bryce Love is supposed to be a stud. 180 yards, 13.8 ypc against Rice. Oh yeah, he also averaged 7.0 ypc last year filling in for Mccaffery.
I will not be surprised if they knock off USC or win the North.
I’ve seen multiple people express extreme confidence in Utah beating them this year. I’d be Leary of that game.