PROVO -- The Cougars' high-octane offense was on display during an intense third day of fall camp--the first time the newcomers and veterans took to the field together.
Coach Bronco Mendenhall said he is encouraged by the amount of work and progress accomplished during each practice session.
"I think we got a lot of work done," he said. "I like our practice format. The amount of volume we accomplished today was significant. If we can maintain that practice format over time, I'll be very encouraged. We're getting in a good number of reps and plays against each other."
Mendenhall said one position that has shown noticeable progress is the quarterbacks.
"What I've noticed is their decision making, especially with how quickly they're getting rid of the ball and to whom," he said. "That is markedly improved over the spring. I'm seeing a little more poise as well."
Junior quarterback John Beck put on a display during the scrimmage, throwing three touchdown passes in five different possessions. The first scoring strike was a 10-yard throw to junior running back Curtis Brown, capping a five-play, 20-yard drive.
Head Coach Bronco Mendenhall
After struggling on his second possession, Beck picked the defense apart on his third, completing 3-of-4 passes for 83 yards, including a 67-yard bomb to junior receiver Zac Collie for a touchdown. Collie credited Beck and the offensive line for allowing him to get open and score.
"It was a great ball by John and the line blocked well," he said. "It was just good offensive execution."
The last possession was similar to the third as Beck completed three short passes and then hit senior receiver Todd Watkins cutting across the field for a 68-yard score. In all, Beck completed 12-of-17 pass attempts for 195 yards and three touchdowns. Watkins caught three passes for 85 yards while Collie hauled in two for 73.
"We have the receivers to make plays and its up to the offensive line to block, and today they did a great job," Beck said. "They gave me some time and I was able to lay the ball up there for those guys to go get it."
Running back Curtis Brown
With temperatures reaching 90 degrees during the morning practice, the trainers did their part to ensure the players and coaches stayed well hydrated. In addition to supplying players with wet, ice towels, trainers distributed 140 gallons of liquid, including 120 gallons of water and 20 gallons of Powerade.
Receiver Luke Ashworth
The Cougars will be back at it Friday--the last practice session before going with full pads on Saturday.