PROVO -- In contrast to Monday's thunderstorms, sunny skies and warm temperatures welcomed BYU to the practice field Tuesday as the Cougars offense and defense continued to improve.
The team practiced in helmets and shoulder pads for the first time enabling slightly more contact in the drills.
"We played in shoulder pads for the first time today," receiver Zac Collie said. "The defense came out to hit today and made some plays. The offense made plays as well. Overall, it was a good practice."
"We got a lot of work done today," head coach Bronco Mendenhall said. "Our energy level was better in the first two practices, but I'm pleased with the amount of work we got done."
After position-specific drills, the Cougars lined up for run-defense drills. The defensive line and linebackers had their first opportunity to hit in a three-quarters speed drill. Contact was limited as players weren't allowed to tackle. In the running drill, the defensive line and linebackers held the running game in check.
Later in the team drills, the defense made plays to start the session while the offense came on strong at the end. Cornerback Ben Criddle broke up the first pass of the drill. Tico Pringle, Justin Robinson and Dan Bates all had pass break ups. Kyle Luekenga got around the end for a non-contact quarterback sack to end a drive.
Later in the team session, the offense began clicking. John Beck hooked up with Collie on a pair of long passes including a 33-yard touchdown pass to score on the third drive. Overall, Collie had over 100 yards receiving in the drill.
"The offensive line protected well and John [Beck] threw some great balls," Collie said.
Overall, the two Becks combined for 15-of-19 passing and 177 yards. John threw for 144 yards and a touchdown.