We have 55 days left until the 2024 season kicks off and that means today's UteNation Countdown to Kickoff spotlight is on no. 55, Spencer Fano. The true sophomore played in all 13 games last season, starting 12 of them (11 at LT, 1 at RT).

The fact that Fano started nearly every game as a true freshman should be a testament to both his ability and potential. Another season in the program should only improve upon his foundation. The former Timpview HS product will be an anchor of the offensive line again. This time it will likely be at right tackle.

UteNation Take

Fano was a highly rated recruit coming out of high school and he lived up to the billing as he immediately started in the season opener for Utah at left tackle. In 2023, he earned CFN Freshman All-American honors.

Playing through an injury, he had his ups and downs last season like any true freshman would be expected to have. However, as the honors show, it was a positive experience.

Now listed at over 300 pounds, Fano already had good footwork and blitz recognition. Now that he’s in Year Two, the game should slow down for him tremendously as he looks to take another step forward.

Remembering Fano’s Recruitment

Keeping local high school prospects in the state of Utah is always a priority for the Utah coaching staff, and Fano was a “must-get” for offensive line coach Jim Harding. Fano was a 4-star Rivals rated recruit, the No. 1 recruit in Utah, and the No. 135 prospect overall by Rivals. In the end, the Utes beat out Oregon and Michigan. This one came down to the very end, as Michigan was the front runner the night before his announcement. Fano’s commitment was the beginning of other 4-star in-state commits, as well as two former 4-star transfers.

The Timpview HS offensive tackle product was a big recruiting win for the University of Utah as he held over 25 scholarship offers, including BYU, the entire Pac-12, Baylor, LSU, Miami, Michigan, Michigan State, and Tennessee.