Utah coach Kyle Whittingham has suspended cornerback Dominique Hatfield indefinitely in the wake of his arrest last week "while we await further clarity from the legal system."

Hatfield, listed as a starter on the Utes' latest depth chart, was charged with aggravated robbery and theft of property following the arrest. His football future will now be determined by the judicial process, which his attorney, Greg Skordas, said could last anywhere from 30 to 60 days to a year.

The Utes, meanwhile, will turn their attention back to the field, where Hatfield's absence leaves another void to be filled on a roster that lost considerable talent after the 2014 season. Whittingham must first tab several replacement players for this departed production if Utah is to sustain 2014's success, which saw a 9-4 overall record and the program's first finish above .500 in conference since joining the Pac-12 in 2011. An early betting line has set the Utes' 2015 win total at 7.5 games.

If Utah manages to hit the 'over' on that one, it'd likely be chalked up as another success in a half-decade stretch that has seen a solid share of highs and lows. Block U documented the ups and downs in that reflection. An improved combination of size and speed has highlighted the Utes' ascent in their new league, and it was evident in multiple ways last season -- as a primary driver of Devontae Booker's post-contact rushing production (815 yards) and the team's national lead in sacks (55). Utah is looking to supercharge its 2014 success moving forward by stockpiling capable talent, and this article suggests that effort has taken root on a department-wide level as the Utes seek a simpler branding identity to woo recruits.

On a separate note: Last week, fire destroyed the Louisiana home of Utah backup quarterback Donovan Isom, and donations are requested.