2025 Countdown to Kickoff: #34 Jeff Utzinger
Height: 6’3”
Weight: 230 pounds
Hometown: Carmel, Indiana (Cathedral)
Class/Position: RS Junior / Linebacker
Utzinger was a standout linebacker at Cathedral High School in Indianapolis and helped lead the Irish to a 5A state title in 2021. He was an all-state selection as a junior and senior.
The Carmel native walked on to the Hoosier program in fall camp of 2022 and redshirted. While he did not see any playing time as a true freshman, Utzinger was a stand out practice player. He earned Scout Team Player of the Week three times, including twice in the same week.
In 2023, Utzinger did not see any game action either, but continued to work on his craft.
In 2024 his hard work was rewarded by Curt Cignetti and the new staff.
“Jeff Utzinger is a walk-on from Cathedral High School, he’s having a good camp, smart kid, knows the system well”. Defensive coordinator Bryant Haynes said in fall camp.
Utzinger played in all 13 games for the Hoosiers last year with most of his action coming on special teams. He made six tackles in 2024.
Utzinger is looking to increase his role in 2025 and there may be opportunity as the Hoosiers are a little thin behind Aiden Fisher and Rolijah Hardy.
The Hoosier Huddle Countdown to Kickoff continues each and every day, so be sure to check back often for the latest profile piece!