Utah Football Continues to Build a Strong Coaching Staff

Morgan Scalley, the head coach of the Utah football program, has been actively shaping the future of the team with strategic hires. On Saturday, after officially appointing Derrick Odum as the new safeties coach, Scalley announced the hiring of Kevin McGiven as the next offensive coordinator for the Utes in 2026.

McGiven, who previously served as the offensive coordinator at Utah State, brings a wealth of experience to the position. With 25 years in coaching, including 17 as a coordinator and a focus on quarterback development, he is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the Utah offense. His previous role at Utah State saw the Aggies rank among the top offenses in the Mountain West, showcasing his ability to lead successful programs.

A Proven Track Record

McGiven’s tenure at Utah State was marked by strong offensive performances. The Aggies finished the 2025 season ranked No. 2 in the Mountain West in scoring (31.8 points per game) and No. 3 in total offense, averaging 422.4 yards per game. This success was largely due to the leadership of dual-threat quarterback Bryson Barnes, who had one of the most impressive seasons in the Football Bowl Subdivision. Barnes recorded 2,500 passing yards and 700 rushing yards, along with 18 touchdown passes and five interceptions, earning him second-team All-Mountain West honors.

This kind of performance aligns with what Utah fans hope to see from their own quarterback, Devon Dampier, who had similar stats this past season. With McGiven’s background, there may be a sense of continuity for Dampier and the rest of the offense as they move forward without former offensive coordinator Jason Beck, who left to join Kyle Whittingham at Michigan.

McGiven’s Vision for Utah Football

In a statement, Scalley praised McGiven’s innovative approach and adaptability. “Kevin is one of the brightest offensive minds in college football,” Scalley said. “His ability to innovate and adapt to different personnel is extremely impressive, and he brings a scheme and mentality that are perfect for the playmakers we have here at Utah.”

McGiven expressed his excitement about joining the Utah program. “What an incredible honor for me to be hired as the offensive coordinator at the University of Utah,” he said. “This is a special place with special people that I’ve always aspired to be. I sincerely thank [Utah athletic director] Mark Harlan and Coach Scalley for giving me this opportunity and putting their faith and trust in me to lead our offense. My wife and I are excited to get down there, and I look forward to continuing and building upon the success and tradition of Utah football.”

Experience and Background

Before his time at Utah State, McGiven spent seven seasons at San José State, where he was the offensive coordinator for six years. Under his leadership, the Spartans won 38 games and qualified for four bowl games over his final five seasons with the program. In 2020, San José State won the Mountain West and ranked No. 19 nationally in passing offense.

McGiven also has a history with Utah State, having served as an offensive assistant from 2009 to 2014. He has also held roles at Southern Utah, Weber State, Montana State, and Oregon State, further solidifying his reputation as a versatile and effective coach.

A Local Connection

McGiven, 48, is a native of Orem, Utah, and a graduate of Mountain View High School. He played one season at Eastern Arizona Junior College and later played wide receiver at Louisiana Tech before earning a bachelor’s degree in business from Utah Valley in 2001.

Additional Coaching Hires

Scalley’s first-year staff will also include Colton Swan, who has been promoted to defensive coordinator. Swan previously served as the linebackers coach and has shown great promise in his role. His appointment adds another layer of depth to the coaching staff.

With these strategic moves, Scalley is laying the groundwork for a strong and competitive Utah football program in the coming years.