Dylan Utter talks visit

Dylan Utter took his first campus visit of the year to Manhattan, Kansas to take in the Kansas State spring football game. The 6-3, 300, defensive line prospect from Nebraska's Papillion Lavista Senior High School in the Omaha area was joined on the sojourn by his mother.

"When we arrived at Kansas State, we got to view the facilities," Dylan Utter said. "Then we went with the rest of the guys who came for the visit and ate with them.

"Before the game, we got to go on the sidelines and watch warm-ups. Coach Snyder talked with me about my upcoming senior season. I spoke with the defensive line coach [Mo Latimore], and Del Miller was encouraging me to come back for a one day camp this summer. He said he was going to come by my school this week."

Utter has one offer to his credit so far from the University of North Dakota. He’s hearing from Iowa, Iowa State, Kansas, Nebraska, Colorado, Missouri, Nebraska and Kansas State. Also, South Dakota, South Dakota State, and North Dakota State are expressing definite interest. He enjoyed what he saw in Manhattan.

“This is Coach Snyder's third year back at Kansas State, so I think they’ll continue to rise,” Utter stated. “This was my first trip and was a really good experience for me. They have a a great stadium and nice facilities. I’m hoping to be back this summer."

Utter helped Papillion Lavista to a 6-4 record and playoff berth. He made 47 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, three sacks, and one interception on the season to place honorable mention All-District.

“I’ve been a starter since my sophomore season,” Utter said. “I feel like I’m maturing as a football player in being able to keep my motor running 100-percent of the game, going all-out on every play, and doing the right things out there, making good decisions.”

This year even more is expected from Utter as he’ll be asked to play on the offensive line as well as being a stalwart on the defensive front for the Monarchs.

“I’m trying to drop some weight to play both ways next year,” Utter said. “I’m looking to step up as a team leader. A lot of the guys look up to me on the team as an experienced player and a senior. I’m going to go out and contribute in any way possible to help the team get wins.”

This summer Utter plans to attend camps at Iowa, Iowa State, Kansas State, Kansas, and Nebraska. A strong showing and big season at Papillion Lavista should have Utter in good shape with D1 offers.

“I’d kind of like to stay close to home,” Utter says of a college destination. “I’m looking at schools with a good family atmosphere that offers a good education. A place that offers a good balance of quality education and quality athletics. I’m just looking for the right fit. I want to play for coaches who are respectful to the players and set the right tone for the program.”

Utter is currently competing in the shot put for his school's track & field team. His best throw is 55’. Last year he finished No. 4 in the state of Nebraska in the event. Utter reports a 3.7 GPA in the classroom. He is looking at pursuing a degree in Business.