Clark Phillips (CB – Utah) vs UCLA’s Offense
Phillips is a slightly undersized cornerback with man/zone coverage versatility. In 2021, the Utah corner was playing zone on 63% of his targeted snaps. This season the Utes have played a lot more man coverage. As a result, Phillips has played man on 65% of his targets thus far in 2022 (data from Sports Info Solutions). The transition appears to capture his innate ability to force turnovers. Phillips has four interceptions already this year and even returned one for a touchdown. Most of these plays were made in man coverage — showcasing the Utah cornerback’s ball skills and drive on the football.
This week Utah takes on an explosive UCLA offense led by running back Zach Charbonnet and quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson. The Bruins are heavy on zone read and running the football. The Thompson-Robinson led passing offense doesn’t push the ball downfield a whole lot and often acts as an extension of the running game. Quick passes on single cut routes may give Phillips another opportunity to make a game changing play.
