him, as well. … He found a role for
us on the defensive line and has per-
formed and played more snaps that
we thought coming into the season."
Kelly has made a habit of bringing
back at least one fifth-year "locker
room guy" each season. In 2013, that
honor went to defensive lineman Tyler
Stockton. Entering the season, Stock-
ton had one career tackle. By season's
end, he had added three more. Just
like this year with Utupo, injuries
forced Stockton to the forefront of the
defensive line. In both cases, Kelly fo-
cused on their off-field contributions
even when they weren't contributing
on Saturdays.
"If your locker room is right, and
Utupo was offered a fifth year because head coach Brian Kelly knew he would be a valuable presence in
the locker room, so the defensive lineman's on-field contributions — 17 stops, two tackles for loss, a sack
and an interception — have been an added bonus.
PHOTO BY BILL PANZICA
