He attended the University of Missouri where he was a distinguished member of the golf team, a three-time all-Big Eight selection and two-time All-American.

Utley holds the PGA Tour record for fewest putts in nine holes, with six at the 2002 Air Canada Championship.

Golf Digest has called Utley one of America's 50 greatest teachers in their annual poll of more than 1,500 teaching professionals from around the country.

[6][7] His list of current and former students on the PGA, Korn Ferry, Champions and LPGA Tours includes Jay Haas, Sergio García, Joaquín Niemann, Scott Langley, Kevin Streelman, Scott Piercy, Paige Mackenzie, Amanda Blumenherst, Darren Clarke, Brandt Jobe, Rocco Mediate, Alex Norén, Inbee Park, Paul McGinley and Bill Haas.

[3] Nike Tour playoff record (0–1) Note: Utley never played in the Masters Tournament or The Open Championship.