Cougars practice in balmy weather in Vegas

BYU held practice at Clark High School here in Las Vegas that ended about an hour ago. The weather was warm, sunny and pleasant — quite the contrast from last season, when it snowed for the first time in about 30 years in Vegas.
It marked BYU’s final practice of the year, since the Cougars don’t practice on Sunday. Asked about the odd circumstances of not practicing two days before the bowl game against Oregon State, BYU players and coaches said they’re looking forward to having a day of rest and being able to represent their faith.
Tonight players from both teams will go to the Welcome Reception at the ESPNZone at the New York-New York hotel. After that, the teams are scheduled to go take in a show at the Mirage. Tomorrow morning, the BYU contingent will attend a sacrament meeting at a local ward.
The Cougars are excited to play this game, saying again that Oregon State is the best team they’ve played in the five years they’ve been in the Las Vegas Bowl.