Utah has run the table before...so there's a good concept of what it takes. The defense can keep them in any game with the balance of an NFL-bound DL and excellent secondary. That's where the hype comes from along with TH and ZM as returning starters.
The issue is the offense. Particularly with TH's health, consistency and lack of a marquee WR.
Unless a strong running team consistently maintains a lead and wins the TO battle, it will have a hard time running the table in a conference (and include BYU) known for strong throwing QBs. UU's defense is exceptionally good...but also one prone to overplay.
Utah is not going to have the passing game that can stage a come back like Utah-OSU or Utah-TCU in 2008. I think 2-3 losses is inevitable.