Utah opened the season on Thursday night against the Florida Gators without their starting quarterback.

No matter, Utah offensive coordinator Andy Ludwig went play-action on the Utes’ first offensive play of the game and quarterback Bryson Barnes went deep on his first throw. Barnes found Money Parks downfield between two Florida defenders.

Just as Parks hauled in the reception, the two Gators collided and took each other out of the play. Parks walked into the endzone for a casual 70-yard pass play to open the scoring.

Barnes is making the start for Cameron Rising, who continues to remain sidelined as he recovers from offseason ACL surgery.

The former walk-on made 10 appearances in 2022 with one spot start. He completed 37 of his 57 passes for four touchdowns and two interceptions. He also ran for 116 yards on 20 carries.

Utah and Florida are squaring off on ESPN.