The 14th ranked Utah Utes (1-0) defeated the Florida Gators (0-1) 24-11 on Thursday night in Salt Lake City.
Utah built a 17-3 lead in the first half and held the Gators to just a touchdown in the fourth quarter to ensure the win.
Graham Mertz went 31-for-44 with 333 yards, a touchdown and an interception in his first start for the Gators.
The Gators are next in action when they host McNeese State on September 9th. Kickoff from Gainesville is scheduled for 7:30 PM on Saturday night.
PHOTO COURTESY GETTY IMAGES