Estimated read time: 1-2 minutes
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
SALT LAKE CITY — Utah got back at it today on the practice field, a day before a 90-play scrimmage. The team was not in full pads but did have a spirited practice again emphasizing tempo.
All of the coaches were stressing the speed. Kyle Whittingham, Dennis Erickson, Brian Johnson and Dan Finn were trying to get the offense to move faster in between plays. Sitake, Shah, and Scalley were pacing the defense on the other side. As fast as the offense moves, the defense tried to get in position and adjust faster.
It is well-documented that the Utes are trying to make the offense more explosive. Robert Jackson and I spoke to Jake Murphy and he categorized explosive plays as 12 or more yards. Judging from practice the offense looked as if it would take a shot at a possible explosive play about every three downs.
Jake Murphy had a wonderful catch today. He just seems to make every play and get wonderful separation no matter who is playing defense. Jake Murphy is one of the leaders of this offense and team.
The offense continues to win the practices. While this is exciting, it is also a concern. The defense usually has always dominated during the spring and early fall camps but this year that is definitely not the case. Keep in mind that many of the starters have been "in the pit." The Utah defense is replacing most of the defensive line and all of the defensive backs.
Robert Jackson and I will be at the scrimmage tomorrow and will have video and interviews up on the Crimson Corner soon after.
