Why is Utah called the Utes? What is a Ute, explained

A Utah Ute is one of the most unique names in all of college athletics.

With Utah playing Ohio State in the Rose Bowl, many people are wondering what exactly is a Utah Ute.

In a land full of Bulldogs, Eagles and Tigers, it is always refreshing to discover a college program with a rather unique team nickname. Though Utah has a proud athletic department and a rabid fanbase, the university located in the state capital of Salt Lake City has become much more higher profile since it joined the Pac-12 a decade ago. There is a reason no other team is called the Utes.

The Utes are a Native American tribe upon which the state of Utah was named after.

Utah Ute: What is the University of Utah’s mascot?

In years past, a student would dress up as the Crimson Warrior to celebrate Utes football. Since that is no longer socially acceptable, an anthropomorphic red-tailed hawk named Swoop has served as the official mascot for all of Utah athletics. Bird mascots are harmless and have been commonly used across all sports. Though frightening to some kids, the birds get the job done.

With the Rose Bowl vs. Ohio State being the biggest game in Utah football history, a win over the Buckeyes will signify to the rest of the college football world that the original BCS buster under Urban Meyer has become one of the best programs in the country with no qualifiers whatsoever. The Utes are a shining example of what it means to play up. They have officially arrived.

Perhaps Swoop will become a more common headgear selection of one Lee Corso down the line?

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