Kyle Whittingham discussed what led to Nate Johnson taking the QB2 job at Monday’s presser. Johnson led a clutch drive against Baylor late in the game.

Johnson finished with 82 yards passing, 32 yards rushing, and 1 touchdown on the ground in Saturday’s action. Johnson also had 45 yards rushing and 1 touchdown on the ground vs. Florida in the opener.

Whittingham said the move had to do with Johnson’s whole body of work.

“I would say based on the whole body of work that we’ve seen, Nate deserves the chance. He’ll be the starter if Cam’s not available. That’s where we’re at, that’s after a lot of evaluation and giving everybody the opportunity…to show what they can do. Nate was very poised on that last drive. I think he made some outstanding decisions, outstanding plays. Mikey Matthews; I’ve been bragging on him ever since Spring ball. Really came up with a couple clutch receptions in that final drive.”

Utah went on to win 20-13 partially due to Johnson’s efforts. The move also means that if Cam Rising is unable to play in Week 3, Johnson will be the starter.

Utah returns home to play Weber State in Week 3. Kickoff from Rice-Eccles Stadium will be at 11 a.m. PT on PAC12.