SALT LAKE CITY — In a strategic move to bolster their offensive strategy, the University of Utah’s football program has appointed Kevin McGiven as the new offensive coordinator. This announcement comes on the heels of Jason Beck’s departure to join Coach Kyle Whittingham at the University of Michigan, marking a significant transition for the Utes’ coaching staff as they prepare for the upcoming season. The hiring was officially confirmed by the Utes' athletic department on Saturday, highlighting McGiven’s extensive experience and innovative approach to offensive football. Morgan Scalley, the new head coach for the Utes, expressed his enthusiasm for McGiven’s hiring, stating, “Kevin is one of the brightest offensive minds in college football. 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. Ute Nation is going to love this guy!” McGiven arrives at Utah with a rich coaching background that spans over 25 years. Most recently, he served as the offensive coordinator at Utah State during the 2025 season, where he was instrumental in developing the Aggies' offensive strategies. Prior to that, he spent seven seasons in various coaching roles at San Jose State, contributing to the team's offensive development and execution. His coaching journey also includes two previous stints at Utah State, as well as significant tenures at Weber State, Brigham Young University (BYU), and Southern Utah University, alongside a few coaching roles out of state. Expressing his gratitude for the opportunity, McGiven stated, “What an incredible honor for me to be hired as the offensive coordinator at the University of Utah. This is a special place with special people that I’ve always aspired to be part of. I sincerely thank 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.” McGiven’s roots in Utah run deep; he grew up in Orem and is a proud graduate of Mountain View High School. His athletic career began at Eastern Arizona Junior College before continuing at Louisiana Tech, where he played college football. He furthered his education with degrees from Utah Valley University and Brigham Young University, reinforcing his strong ties to the state. The Utes are entering a pivotal period as they seek to maintain their competitive edge in the Pac-12 Conference. With Whittingham’s long-standing success and the recent transition in coaching roles, the program is poised for a new chapter. McGiven’s appointment reflects a commitment to innovation within the offense, aiming to maximize the potential of the Utes’ roster and adapt strategies that align with the strengths of the players. The Utes finished last season with a commendable record, showcasing a blend of veteran leadership and emerging talent. McGiven’s expertise will be critical in not only refining the offensive playbook but also in fostering a cohesive unit that can execute effectively on game day. Scalley, who took over the head coach position, has emphasized the importance of continuity and development, and McGiven’s familiarity with the local football landscape is expected to play a significant role in that process. As the Utes prepare for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on McGiven to see how he will implement his offensive philosophy and how it will translate into on-field performance. The combination of Scalley’s vision and McGiven’s experience could potentially escalate the Utes’ status within the Pac-12, challenging rivals and striving for postseason contention. In conclusion, the hiring of Kevin McGiven as the offensive coordinator for the University of Utah signifies a strategic effort to enhance the team’s offensive capabilities. As the Utes gear up for the next season, the football community in Utah is eager to witness how McGiven’s innovative approach will shape the future of the program, continuing its legacy of success and competitiveness in collegiate football.