Mark Atuaia on Utah’s Young Running Backs, Wayshawn Parker’s Growth

Utah’s running back room has already seen several different storylines develop through the first two weeks of the season. While Wayshawn Parker keeps one of if not the biggest of the Utes’ biggest offensive weapons, LaMarcus Bell and Daniel Bray have continued to develop into larger roles within the offense. Running backs coach Mark Atuaia spoke about the progression of his young backs among other things on Tuesday. Lamarcus Bell and Where He’s At After a strong debut in Week 1, Bell saw a smaller role against Arkansas, but Atuaia said the freshman’s development remains the priority. “Just continue doing what he’s been doing, helping the team and servicing the defense and just continue learning,” Atuaia said. “For a young man in his case, a lot of times they get thrown into the fire too early. My experience has shown that we need to kind of curtail that.” Wayshawn Parker’s Consistency While Bell and the other youngster’s continue to develop Parker continues to be a force as he’s already scored six times. “He’s just showing what he could do,” Atuaia emphasized. “He’s learned three offenses in the last three years, and each one highlights a different skill set that he has.” Even with more room to grow, Parker is on the right path to where he and the team wants him to be. “He’s definitely on track, and I’m proud of his efforts thus far.” Bray has also continued to earn a larger role after returning from a concussion, something Atuaia has noticed throughout the early part of the season. Daniel Bray is Here “Daniel has just continually grown and is still on that trajectory,” Atuaia said. “Just seeing him in the increased capacity that we’re asking him to perform in, he’s been well.” Bray’s return has not been perfect by any means but Atuaia has liked how the running back has responded to everything that’s come his way. “He got a little banged up, but he’s come back strong,” Atuaia said. “Whenever you get in, just play hard and go full bore. That’s what he’s been doing. So, kudos to him.”