Why This Utica Driller Is up Big After Earnings

While it might not be its most productive play right now, Gulfport Energy (GPOR +0.00%) has high hopes for its acreage in the Utica Shale. Much like its larger brother, Chesapeake Energy (CHK +0.00%), Gulfport is scheduled to pour resources into this area, and rightfully so. Strong initial production flows and heavy oil and natural gas liquids content could mean the Utica Shale would end up rivaling its more prominent shale cousins -- the Bakken and Eagle Ford shales. Motley Fool energy analyst Taylor Muckerman believes that the Utica is the real deal. View the video below to find out what Gulfport had in store that helped lead to its big day in the markets today.