Today’s practice was characterized by a great amount of intensity. Both players and coaches talked about the intensity and the focus the team displayed in practice. Coach Rick Neuheisel described it as "a very, very spirited practice." The thing Neuheisel said the team needs to do now is to improve upon the execution of the gameplan.
"But if we get that kind of effort tomorrow, we’ll have the right kind of focus and the right kind of preparation for the contest on Saturday," Neuheisel said.
Here are some more notes on practice:
– During redzone drills, quarterback Kevin Craft forced a throw into coverage, throwing a near interception. Neuheisel was less than impressed, shouting "Don’t throw it to the other team. Don’t do it." Craft remained after the conclusion of practice, getting in extra practice throws.
– Running back Kahlil Bell participated in practice but was clearly limited, lacking that same amount of explosiveness he usually shows. Neuheisel said it would be a great boost to have him on Saturday, but admitted that he is not at 100 percent yet.
– During practice, Bell and freshman running game Derrick Coleman were involved in an altercation. It did not escalate and after practice, Bell said everything is cool with he and Coleman. "It’s football. It’s a very emotional game and you got to be emotional to play it. Sometimes you know emotions collide. That’s all."
– The MRI on left tackle Micah Kia and tight end Corey Harkey came back negative and Neuheisel termed them day-to-day.
– Wide receiever Marcus Everett participated in practice yet it is doubtful he will play on Saturday. Neuheisel said he is looking for the Oct. 4 game against Washington State as a return date.
– The starting offensive line was as follows:
Left tackle: Jeff Baca
Left guard: Darius Savage
Center: Jake Dean
Right guard: Scott Glicksberg
Right tackle: Nick Ekbatani