Aug 21 - The Utes wrapped up the final morning practice of two a days running wind sprints and getting an ear full from head coach Kyle Whittingham.  This following a "scuffle" at mid field that broke out following a punt return.  DeVonte Christopher was receiveing the punt and was tackled from behind by a trio of Utes.  Christopher then got to his feet and some pushing and shoving began followed by a scrum as both sidelines emptied and coaches began to pull players of the pile.

While stuff like this is not uncommon at the end of camp, when players are sick of drills and hitting the same guys everyday, Kyle Whittingham was not pleased with the actions of the players which was evident with the sprints and the berating that the team took from Whittingham following the sprints.

Afterwards you heard the players talking amongst themselves reminding each other of the importance of keeping you head, and how actions like that could cost the team in a game situation.

Besides the rumble at the end of practice, the news of the practice was the absence of Koa Misi.  It was released yesterday that Misi will be out until further notice.  Kyle Whittingham reiterated that he feels comfortable with the four guys (Derrick Shelby, Nai Fotu, Christian Cox, and Junior Tui'noni)  that they have at the position.  Maybe the biggest concern is that of Fotu becoming an everydown defensive end.  Whittingham said that Fotu, who at 6 foot 240 is a little undersized as a defensive end, would have to "stout" up and become a force in the run game.  Fotu's specialty has been the pass rush with his speed and athletism but as an everydown end is going to have to face more blocking and the possibility of the offense motioning the tight end to his side.  Whittingham for his part expressed confidence in Fotu's ability to handle the added responsibility.

The QB competion continues to be neck and neck according to the coaching staff.  Whittingham also was more forthcoming today about the probability that the team would not publicly announce a starter until kickoff of the Utah State game two weeks from today, but that the decision should be made sometime in the next ten days.  As far as how the QB's looked, Terrance Cain seems to look more consistant of the two, Wynn to his credit though did make a couple of nice throws on the run today one to Christopher who had gotten past the defense.

Besides the Misi injury, Walter Watts hyperextended his knee yesterday and missed practice this morning.  Coach Whittingham expected him back for the scrimmage tomorrow or for Monday's practice at the latest.  Also, WR Shaky Smithson spent another day in the "Pit" but Whittingham said he could be back in practice tonight or tomorrow.

The Utes will hold their final scrimmage of their camp tomorrow morning at Rice Eccles Stadium.  It is closed to the public.  The scrimmage represents the end of the fall camp for the Utes as on Monday they will begin preparation for Utah State.