Brian Blechen back after 3-game ban

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SALT LAKE CITY -- Playmaking strong safety Brian Blechen is expected to be back in Utah's starting lineup for Saturday's Pac-12 opener at Arizona State after serving a three-game suspension for violating undisclosed team rules.

The 6-foot-2 junior is listed as the starter on the new depth chart and coach Kyle Whittingham said Monday he expects Blechen to play very well based on his effort the past month while working with the scout team.

Blechen had three interceptions and three forced fumbles last season, and blocked a field goal.

In his 2010 college debut, he intercepted a pass on the first play of overtime to set up Utah's upset of Pittsburgh.

The Utes also expect running back John White back from an ankle injury and free safety Eric Rowe back from a strained hamstring.

Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press

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