University of Utah Athletics

The Utes compete in NCAA Division I, meaning big-time college sports with full scholarships and serious competition. With 503 total athletes across 18 varsity sports, athletes make up just under 2% of the 26,041-student body. Utah recently joined the Big 12 Conference, a major upgrade that reflects the program's growing national profile. The school awards $14.9 million in athletic scholarships annually. Football and basketball draw the biggest crowds, with Rice-Eccles Stadium hosting packed games against conference rivals. The Holy War rivalry with Brigham Young runs deep, creating one of college sports' most intense matchups. Utah has built particularly strong programs in football, gymnastics, and skiing, with the latter benefiting from strong mountain training facilities just minutes from campus.