PROVO, Utah – BYU football coaches and players began fall practice Saturday afternoon at the Student Athlete Building practice fields.
“I was impressed by a number of things,” BYU head coach Bronco Mendenhall said. “Coach Wintrich has done a really nice job through the summer. The players were excited to play and looked fit. I was encouraged by the chemistry, the leadership and the culture. ”
Before settling into practice, the team received new equipment and gear.
Practice then began with offensive and defensive position drills before advancing to a good portion of 11-on-11 scrimmages.
Senior quarterback Taysom Hill received the majority of reps, with freshman Tanner Mangum coming close behind.
“I felt a little rusty today,” Hill said. “The ball wasn’t always placed where it needed to be. I feel like, though, for the most part we had a good, solid practice.”
Early on in the 11-on-11 scrimmages, Hill broke free from the defense, slanting across the field for a 30-yard run. Minutes later, a nearly 50-yard Devon Blackmon reception helped showcase his athleticism.
Perhaps the best defensive play of the day came as sophomore defensive back Grant Jones intercepted a tipped pass from Beau Hoge before advancing five yards.
“A few players stood out to me defensively: Harvey Langi, Fred Warner, Sione Takitaki and Travis Tuiloma. I also think we are going to have pretty good depth this year at corner,” Mendenhall said.
Mangum concluded the team scrimmages with a 50-plus yard touchdown pass to freshman wide receiver Josh Weeks.
Fall practice continues Monday with an open practice at the outdoor practice fields of the Student Athlete Building. Practice begins at 10:30 a.m. on Monday. Practices on Tuesday and Wednesday are also open to the public.