One day down …
BYU wrapped up its first practice of fall camp this afternoon and the Cougars were blessed with ideal weather conditions — unseasonably cool temperatures and a mild breeze for most of the two-hour session.
Coach Bronco Mendenhall said he likes the work ethic of this team and its eagerness to play. He was pleased with the first day of practice. Several players mentioned that, unlike last season (at least so far), practice was fun and upbeat.
“It’s an absolute different feel,” quarterback Max Hall said. “It’s fun to be out here. Guys are flying around.”
As far as news goes, Mendenhall said defensive lineman Rick Wolfley has decided to leave the football program. Fullback Manase Tonga was not at camp (and is not listed on the roster), though Mendenhall is expecting him to return to the team next week after clearing up some academic issues.
Missing from practice was linebacker Matt Bauman, who was attending his brother’s wedding, and receiver Rhen Brown, who got married Friday. Offensive lineman Jesse Taufi must clear up some academic stuff before he can practice. Andrew Rich attended practice but did not participate because of illness. He’s expected to be back soon.
During 11-on-11 drills, wide receiver O’Neill Chambers caught a short pass and turned it into a long run that ended when he went down near the goal line. Hall said he loves throwing to Chambers, McKay Jacobson and the other receivers. There seems to be plenty of talent to make up for the loss of Austin Collie, who’s now with the Indianapolis Colts.
Saturday marked the first official practice for a host of Cougars, including quarterback Riley Nelson, a transfer from Utah State. He took reps with the third team. Nelson’s first pass attempt was an incompletion — intended for Matthew Edwards, the grandson of legendary coach LaVell.
In an interesting move, during 11-on-11 drills, offensive coordinator Robert Anae stood on the balcony overseeing the practice field and wore a headset to call plays, with quarterbacks coach Brandon Doman and receivers coach Patrick Higgins wearing headsets on the field. Mendenhall explained his coaching staff decided to do that as a way to simulate a game experience.
Jacobson, who returned from his mission last winter and missed much of spring ball due to a hamstring injury, was the first one to reach the “Y” during the team’s traditional run up “Y” Mountain early Saturday morning.
BYU coaches and players raved about the play of cornerback Robbie Buckner, a returned missionary who is one of several players vying for the starting field corner spot. Players say Buckner impressed them during summer workouts. Mendenhall said he’s going to be tough to beat out at that spot, though JC transfers Lee Aguirre, Brian Logan and Corby Eason will try to do just that.
BYU resumes practice Monday afternoon.