PROVO -- The defense dominated team drills on Monday as BYU started the second week of fall camp, collectively recording two interceptions, three three-and-outs, three sacks, two fumble recoveries and a blocked kick. The interceptions marked the first of camp.
“The defense was more execution sound today and made some strides,” said BYU head coach Bronco Mendenhall. “We’ve gotten to this point in camp without any interceptions, which is a positive sign. Even though there were two today, it doesn’t overshadow what [Max Hall] has done.”
To start blue zone drills, linebacker Matt Bauman and defensive back Brian Logan recorded key tackles to force a 28-yard field goal attempt by Mitch Payne. The kick was blocked by junior defensive back Brandon Bradley and recovered by junior Andrew Rich.
Payne successfully converted a 21-yard field goal on the next set after several carries by running backs Malosi Te'o and Peni Maka'afi.
Defensive lineman Jan Jorgensen’s sack against Hall contributed to a three-and-out against the first-team offense. With back-to-back sacks from linebacker Jameson Frazier on newcomer Riley Nelson, the first team session ended with the defense preventing a touchdown on all four drives.
The second team session didn’t start with much more luck for the offense, as freshman Craig Bills intercepted a pass from Hall intended for tight end Andrew George. Another freshman, linebacker Jared Richardson, reached out for a one-handed interception on the opening play of Hall’s next drive and returned it for a touchdown.
“It’s fun to see the younger players get in and know what to do so they then have the chance to make plays,” said Mendenhall.
Nelson led the following set, finding sophomores Mike Hague and Stephen Covey for receptions of 16 and 22 yards, respectively. Freshman Tucker Lamb’s catch for 13 yards set up first-and-goal. An eight-yard pass to Braden Brown recorded the first offensive touchdown of the day.
On the final drive of the day Hall used his two tight ends to find the endzone, throwing a 15-yarder to Dennis Pitta and a long 35-yard ball to George.
Hall ended the morning completing 7-of-12 passes for 78 yards, two interceptions and one touchdown. Nelson was 5-for-6 for 61 yards and one touchdown.
The team will hold another closed practice session Monday evening at 5 p.m.