Non-padded physicality and newcomers showcased in day two of Utah camp.
Day two of camp was a very warm one, and it was all business on the field.
All quarterbacks struggled connecting with receivers’ sweet spots down the field and over the middle during the media observation period, but head coach Kyle Whittingham said all the quarterbacks took a step forward in the practice overall.
Whittingham also noted that the receiving corps has stepped up their collective physicality and motor, and the first two days have shown that. Receivers have fought defensive backs for passes in front or behind them in ways that were missing last season. Whittingham said the group is hungry to get better.
The offensive and defensive lines were battling at a very physical level for a practice with no pads. So far the offensive line seems up to the task, a better place than they were in just months ago in spring practice.
Young newcomers are catching the eye of coaches and media alike, most notably two freshman running backs, Zack Moss and Devontae Henry-Cole, and defensive end and prized recruit Maxs Tupai. Moss particularly caught my eye, and looks more like a sophomore or junior size-wise than a true freshman. He still is behind Joe Williams and Troy McCormick in the depth chart, but that’s a guy that may get some playing time this season. With Pac-12 level recruiting, newcomers are playing at a higher level earlier in camp than in previous years, boosting the Utes’ overall depth.
Head coach Kyle Whittingham:
Defensive Line coach Lewis Powell:
Defensive End Hunter Dimick:
Wide Receiver Tim Patrick:
