PROVO -- Tuesday marked the final practice of Fall Camp, with head coach Bronco Mendenhall calling it the best he’s seen yet.
“It was the best so far this camp,” he said. “Both sides were sharp, physical and intense. I thought it was good before, but it was better today. Every play seems to matter. The knowledge of how critical assignments are is sinking in, so I think urgency is the best way to frame it.”
Senior safety David Tafuna stole the show during the first drive of team drills, batting down and providing heavy coverage on three consecutive plays, forcing Max Hall and the first-team offense to a quick third-and-out.
Since the beginning of Fall Camp, Mendenhall has repeatedly stated that despite losing eight starters from the 2007 defense, a defensive system has been put into place, and though names and faces will change, the execution will not. After Tuesday’s practice, he is confident that statement is true.
“The defense is looking sharper than even I thought at the beginning for Fall Camp,” said Mendenhall. “They’ll still continue to grow at the beginning of the year, especially, but they’ll be a good unit.”
Coleby Clawson recorded a sack on the following drive, against Brenden Gaskins. Gaskins followed with a 20-yard pass to Tyler Kozlowski, but the drive was cut short after back-to-back incompletions.
Hall completed 3-of-3 passes during an overtime situation, finding Harvey Unga and Andrew George for five and 16 yards, respectively. The offense picked up its only touchdown of the day on a one-yard toss from Hall to senior Fui Vakapuna.
Kickers Mitch Payne and Justin Sorensen participated in a series of drills, as both continue to compete for the starting job. Mendenhall says the final decision won’t be made until next week, as the numbers continue to play out, but he won’t allow the competition to extend into the season.
“There’s something to be said about knowing you’re the guy, and knowing what your role is,” said Mendenhall. “I’d rather it not go week-to-week in the season. Certainly along the way, if there appears to be some struggling, is could be open again.”
The team plans to hold a scrimmage on Wednesday morning at LaVell Edwards Stadium. The scrimmage will concentrate on younger players and the special teams unit. Most of the team’s starters will be held out.