Salt Lake City- Holidays bring a lot of joy, but they also bring immense pain to many people. It’s been two years since Utes has come to understand the pain very well. Running Back Tie His Jordan was well on his way to becoming a star in Utah until a tragic accident severely cut his life short on Christmas Day. With the euphoria surrounding the holidays and the impending return of visits to the Rose Bowl, Utah Football took time to remember teammate, friend and brother Ty Jordan.
A morning no one will forget
If you have any connection to the state of Utah, whether you’re a Utah fan or not, you’ll remember where you were and what you were doing when you found out Jordan was no more. His December 26th, two years ago, was early on filled with much confusion, followed by numb disbelief and intense grief.
On December 22, just three days before his death, Jordan was recognized by Pac-12 as the offensive freshman of the year among his many other accolades.
He had some big shoes to fill and he did just that! @yogiros 👏@_ylfotyt only the second @ Utah Football player to win #Pac12FB with the annual award @PressMoss2. pic.twitter.com/J8c1M3Ez5n
— Pac-12 Network (@Pac12Network) December 22, 2020
A week ago, Jordan, along with backup quarterback Drew Risk, helped lead the Utes to a comeback victory against Washington State. He finished the day with 33 receiving yards in the inning.
Jordan’s final career stats for the 2020 shortened five-game Covid-19 football season were 83 carries for 597 yards and six touchdowns.
Utah football cherishes life
Time has a way of healing all wounds, and Utah football lives in honor of Jordan (and Aaron Lowe, who tragically died nine months after Jordan).
Against all odds, the Utes eventually won their first Pac-12 championship and, in the face of great adversity last season, made their first Rose Bowl appearance against Ohio State.
It’s a beautiful day to smile.
It’s the perfect day to spread infectious optimism.
A perfect day to live and love fearlessly.
It’s a great day to remember @_ylfotyt When @Ezmoneylow 22% better for whatever your heart desires.
❤️2.22.22 ❤️#22 forever pic.twitter.com/ALioywhqfe
— Michelle Bodkin (@BodkinKSLsports) February 22, 2022
Utah recently beat the odds for a second time after their hopes of winning again as Pac-12 champions in the 2022 season seemed to have been lost. They dedicated it to Jordan and Lowe who wore the number 22. .
Michelle Bodkin is a Utah Utes Insider for KSLsports.com and the Crimson Corner Podcast (apply) and KSL Sports Zone Saturday Show (Saturdays 10am-12pm). Follow her on Twitter and her Instagram: @BodkinKSLsports