Fall Camp Notebook '010: Day 1

First of all, let me just start off by saying, "WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!" It's college football time! And now for our regularly scheduled Fresno State camp breakdown...

Unfortunately, today was the most disappointing practice I've seen in years. The guys need to step it up and show some character tomorrow.

QB: Maybe the most disappointing position of all. Two guys return who we know are very capable in Ryan Colburn and Derek Carr. Neither were particulary "on" today, with Colburn overthrowing guys and Carr getting picked off in 1-on-1 drills. We know they'll look better soon, but the scary part was the backups. If Carr is going to redshirt this season, a capable No. 2 must emerge. Today, it was walk-on Tyler Stirewalt who looked most capable. Lauded JC transfer Kelly O'Brien, tall and lanky son of former Jets star Ken O'Brien, showed messy footwork and a propensity to throw into the ground. True freshman Greg Watson showed quick footwork, but struggled with accuracy (bringing back memories of now-departed Ebahn Feathers).

RB: It was great to see senior Cal transfer Tracy Slocum (Clovis East HS) dressed and competing in jersey No. 22. The next most noticeable thing was the impressive size of true freshman Emery Schexnayder -- he's big. It's tough to imagine Schexnayder won't get looks this season in short-yardage situations. Walk-on fullback Dylan Cruz, who redshirted last season, showed off tailback-esque footwork in agility drills.

WR: The wideouts presented another messy situation. With so many of last years standouts gone, possibility the most talented crop of freshmen in school history arrived. But they've got work to do. Dropped passes were the name of the game all morning for newcomers and vets alike. The two brightest spots were likely greyshirt freshman Alex Jefferies and Devon Wylie. Jamel Hamler and Victor Dean didn't get a ton of balls thrown their way. True freshman Josh Harper looks more game-ready than any of the newcomers, but had a bad drop. And, as reported by Guy Haberman, Davon Dunn had a clearinghouse issue and isn't expected to participate until sometime the next couple days.

TE: With Pete Alamar replacing John Baxter as assistant coach, expect to see a whole lot more of Ryan Skidmore -- sure to be a welcome target for the quarterbacks.

OL: The usual suspects all return and will be the team's strength. Only glaring mistake of the day was a Lars Bramer snap over the QB's head.

DL: Happy to learn of Nebraska transfer DT Quintin Toailoa -- keep an eye on him in the coming days. DE Matt Akers seems to be dropping on the depth chart, while redshirt freshman Nat Harrison is on the rise. DT Mark Roberts also got second-team reps today, after falling to third team last season.

LB: Loaded with depth and talent. Surprised to see Daniel Salinas, who had solid experience as a true freshman last season, working out with the newcomers in the morning. He's got starter potential in the next two years, as does Jeremiah Toma. Toma is still getting plenty of first-team MLB reps, swapping in and out with Ben Jacobs.

DB: 1-on-1s showed several highlights, including Desia Dunn running step for step with Jamel Hamler to bat down a corner route. Lorne Bell picked off Derek Carr on a poor route run by Matt Lindsey (who's now wearing No. 2). Defensive coordinator Randy Stewart singled out L.J. Jones after a couple mistakes, likely picking on him because he's got such huge upside. But by far the biggest head-scratcher of the day was Zak Hill getting first-team reps, while Phillip Thomas took second team (note to coaches: that's a horrible gameplan). Thomas showed he can line up at corner in nickel packages during spring camp.

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Defense yelled loud & hit somebody

So maybe it wasn't the 'Shutup & Hit Somebody' of 2001 lore, but let's be real, Fresno State has always had its share of defenders who like to talk after popping an opponent in the mouth. Tonight, Chris Carter led the rallying cry as the defense got stronger as the scrimmage went on, allowing just two scores (none by Carr or Colburn).

The defensive front is forcing much more pressure than a year ago. Hopefully that's due to the defenders' improvement and not the offensive line's regression. D-tackle Logan Harrell was impressive tonight getting into the backfield, but the most eye-opening performance was by true freshman Terrance Kindle who consistently raced into the backfield and even recorded a sack. Chris Lewis saw extensive reps at d-end, including one play where he hit Ryan Mathews late out of bounds when Mathews was already on his hands and knees. Mathews popped up and swiped at Lewis' helmet, raising the heat a bit.

Another true freshman, and a Texas high school teammate of Kindle's, stood out at linebacker in Daniel Salinas. While Travis Brown sometimes hesitates and looks like he might not trust his ability in the open field, Salinas consistently flies to the ball. One play in particular tonight was when Brown stepped gingerly toward a churning Robbie Rouse and got juked before Salinas drove Rouse to the turf.

Nico Herron seems to have a firm grip on the starting strong side spot for now, and fans had to like the emotional effort he put forth in the scrimmage. Shawn Plummer joined the highlight reel when he leveled Devon Wylie from behind after a reception.

The continuing improvement of Desia Dunn at corner is encouraging, but more encouraging tonight was the play of sophomore Isaiah Green, who intercepted a pass in the end zone that Ryan Colburn intended for Ryan Skidmore and also recovered a Wylie fumble. Damion Owens, who seemed stagnant in his growth as a player last year, had to put smiles on coaches' faces tonight with his sure-handed tackling that ruined several of the offense's plays.

And how 'bout walk-on safety Justin Webber, who forced a fumble and made two plays behind the line of scrimmage. Safety Marvin Haynes got beat bad after taking a questionable angle on a long run by Michael Harris, and Lorne Bell showed why he's considered the Bulldogs' hardest hitter when he caught Darren Newborne breezing across the middle and took his breath away.

No special teams drills took place during the scrimmage, which was attended by about 1,000 fans and several notable alumni -- Bobby Lepori, Asen Asparuhov and Paul Pinegar to name a few.

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Fall scrimmage sketchy for offense

Ryan Colburn took first-team reps to start the scrimmage, but the offense sputtered most of the night no matter which quarterback was in. Though Derek Carr had the best stat line on 8 for 12 with 101 yards, compared to Colburn's 8 of 14 for 57 yards, Carr missed on a few should-be surefire completions. One thing to note is Colburn throws a flatout pretty ball, tight spiral. But Carr can really zip it in there, as he showed.

In Ebahn Feathers' first series at the helm, he led a touchdown drive. Feathers looked better running option plays than passing (as per the norm) but nearly made a fantastic throw down the sideline. The toss was a smidgen out of reach of the diving J.J. Stallworth. Coaches have got to work with redshirt freshman center Douglas Spacht, who constantly snaps the ball over Feathers' head -- and seems to be the only center Feathers gets reps with. Luckily, Feathers jumped to grab 'em all, but it gives the defense the advantage every time his fleet feet leave the ground.

The biggest passing play was a 35-yarder from Carr to Jamel Hamler across midfield. The ball was underthrown by Carr as he tried to avoid a sack from a defender in his face, but Hamler showed how special he can be by adjusting and going after the ball and yanking it down.

Still way too many dropped passes by receivers, though Chastin West did a great job of hanging on to one around his waist in traffic. Devon Wylie had a couple nice catch and jukes, but fumbled away one of his receptions. Seyi Ajirotutu, Marlon Moore, Rashad Evans and Matt Lindsey were all sidelined and not dressed out.

One of the few bright spots for the offense on the otherwise frustrating night was redshirt freshman tight end Tapa Taumopeau, who showed he has deceptive football speed and solid hands. Expect him to push Ryan Skidmore, Cub Pascoe and Isaac Kinter (who also didn't dress) for playing time at tight end/H-back.

Ryan Mathews looks to be running at a different level than everyone else -- when he takes that first burst it's obvious he's an elite caliber of football player. He broke off one of the most impressive runs of the night, zig-zagging and straight-arming his way for 17 yards. True freshman Robbie Rouse continues to impress, scoring one of just two touchdowns in the game on a would-be broken play where he improvised and scooted outside the tackle and into the end zone.

The only other touchdown was a late pass from walk-on QB Tyler Stirewalt to converted tight end Austin Raphael.

Redshirt freshman Michael Harris probably won't see much time this year as he's being groomed for a chance at a featured role 2011, but he showed a glimpse with a 46-yard scamper and some breakaway speed. Anthony Harding and Lonyae Miller, as well as Mathews, saw limited action as coaches favored getting younger guys reps.

The offensive line is a concern. Bryce Harris, Leslie Cooper, Joe Bernardi, Andrew Jackson and Kenny Wiggins worked the first series. Though some jobs are still being battled out, the line looked suspect throughout the scrimmage. Freshman Matt Hunt didn't dress, but could battle for the left guard spot. Richard Pacheco saw first-team reps later at center, as did Devan Cunningham at left tackle. Across the board, this might be the most size Fresno State has ever had on the o-line. The 2008 signees -- Max Devlin, Austin Wentworth, Trevor Richter, Richard Helepiko -- are all flatout huge.

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Friday Rundown

Fresno State practice was all over the fields today -- literally. The first part was at Valley Growers Field, before the whole squad was herded into Bulldog Stadium with a good turnout of fans.

Lots of scrimmage situations today with 7 on 7s, 11 on 11s and live-hitting with piped in crowd noise (though most of it was Bulldog gameday songs, unlike the annoyance of opponents songs they played in years past...I never want to hear "Rocky Top" again). So who stood out? Read on...

While neither quarterback starred today, true freshman Derek Carr continues to outshine junior Ryan Colburn (a trend the past four days). Colburn overthrew several receivers on would-be touchdown routes, even when there was no live rush.

Carr also threw one behind a receiver and later should have been intercepted (Marvin Haynes let the pass bounce off his chest after a nice jumped route in the end zone). But Carr made a nice play on the run to end the day, recognizing that safety Moses Harris had his back turned and zipping a touchdown pass to the sure-handed Jamel Hamler.

That said, both Colburn and Carr led the offense on touchdown drives, while Ebahn Feathers stalled inside the 10-yard line when he took the reins.

The receivers as a whole dropped a ton of balls today. Marlon Moore, Seyi Ajirotutu and Rashad Evans didn't participate in drills, while Chastin West had a case of the dropsies.

Ryan Mathews stood out in the passing game. And Robbie Rouse and Lonyae Miller each broke off long touchdown runs in tag-off drills.

Lots of moving parts throughout the depth chart on defense today, so it'll be interesting to follow how the pecking order unfolds. Can Travis Brown work his way into competition with Nico Herron?

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Tuesday Two-a-day: Session 1

First, the bad news. Fresno State had an 8-10 p.m. practice session Tuesday night, but the Bounce was unable to attend. We're not happy campers about that.

That being said, there was two and a half hours of practice to enjoy in the a.m. And it was on this day, day 6, that the rookies finally joined the veterans to create a full squad. With that said, here are some news, notes and observations:

***UPDATE: So I left something out that I was reminded about this morning. The hit of the day came toward the end of practice during the 11-on-11 "tag-off" session in the compete zone (25 yard line to the goal). Ebahn Feathers jumped for a high snap out of the shotgun, came down with the ball and handed it to Robbie Rouse. As Rouse planted for his first step, Matt Akers came flying from around the left end and steam-rolled Rouse into the ground for the biggest collision of the day. This play sort of epitomizes the anxiousness that can be observed watching the team that they want to hit. The tag-off session is a full speed session, with defensive players making contact, wrapping up or stripping and letting the ball carrier continue with the play. Needless to say, as the period got more competitive, so to did the urge to hit. This is a good thing.

• With Matt Hunt and Devan Cunningham still not ready for full speed action, Leslie Cooper and Charley Robbins received time at left guard. Both played the position admirably, with Cooper taking home one of the plays of the day. In a nutshell, Cooper drove linebacker Ben Jacobs back 15+ yards away from the ball and line of scrimmage until the whistle blew.

• Joe Bernardi also received first team reps at center today. The always reliable Bernardi had a solid day as well.

• Quarterback is obviously the story of camp, but the linebackers will also eventually make a splash. Ben Jacobs seems to have the middle locked up, but he still seems to me missing a dimension from his game that would make him great. On the outside, Kyle Knox is showing great growth, although he and Nico Herron will at least be pushed for their jobs.

• True freshman Travis Brown may be the biggest contender, as he was given reps as the second team strongside backer. Fellow freshman Damion Whittington is also flashing talent out there.

• Also making noise in camp, and again on Tuesday, are the wideouts. New coach Keith Williams is pure hilarity, but his coaching methods are top flight. Route running has never been better across the board, and their improvement should only help the defensive backs compete at a higher level as well. Jamel Hamler is still looking prime to be big-play material.

• After watching a new wrinkle in the offense involving Devon Wylie, I'm starting to think that his school-record 4.25 40 speed is a tad bit slower than his true time. Defenders will thank the football Gods that the field is only 100 yards, because chasing Wylie will not be a fun chore.

• Bulldogs coaches also seem to have increased their aggressiveness for turnovers this year, a very much welcomed mentality. This should suit this team's new decapitating personality just fine.

• Speaking of the new personality, let's speak on it for a second. After having attended many years of Fresno State fall camps, the 2009 version has easily been among the most focused and effort-giving ones. Coaches have been dishing out praise for execution and effort frequently. That being said, they are still pushing the players to set the bar higher every practice. Bottom line is you couldn't ask for a better run camp right now.

• Finally, let's get to the QBs. After a few days of neck-and-neck competition between Ryan Colburn and Derek Carr, it seems as though the competition has heated up, with Carr doing most of the fueling. He has looked more poised, comfortable and shown more leadership each day. As a result, he has seen reps with the first team on consecutive days. On Tuesday, Carr made ridiculous throws at a torrid pace, flashing some of this teams enormous potential for big plays. Can a true freshman really be this good? Seems to be so. That being said, Colburn has also look fairly consistent, and should be able continue a high-scoring offense should he get the job.

• And for you Ebahn Feathers fans out there. Feathers has legit speed and can breakaway at any time. The noticeable and encouraging thing the past couple of days has been his arm strength and spiral quality. A lot less ducks being shot lately. He is still frustratingly inconsistent, because at times he shows flashes that prove he could be a monster impact player. He is getting plenty of reps, almost all of which he is throwing in, in an attempt to get him more seasoning for his strong right arm. He'll need to find accuracy to see the field more than a couple times per game.

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Day 5: First day of full pads in the books

It should be an unwritten understanding, but just in case, let's start off with what I deem the necessary fall camp disclaimer. We've already got four Fresno State football camp wrap-ups, and excitement on the Barkboard is beginning to build steam.

So with that, let's remember than for probably every team in camp, everything is looking positive (except for idaho and other cheap "division I" teams). It's the nature of the beast we call fall camp. A fresh start and new and/or more improved players will do that to you. We at the Bulldog Bounce try to keep that in mind, but like you, we have Bulldog Red pumping through our veins. So don't be afraid to get excited, we are too. Just remember not to climb all the way to the top of the mountain too soon. Take it day by day, as we hope the Bulldogs do.

Today was the first day of full pads, which means somewhere, behind the fence and bushes surrounding the practice field, was an out-of-town homer TV station (likely oregon or boise) scouting the team.

It also means that today was finally an opportunity to see the guys put their talents to use at full speed, so to speak. Collisions are more violent and the spotlight shines a little brighter, so these are presumably key days for coaches to evaluate. Let's get to some nuggets:

Ebahn Feathers got a ton of throws in today. He threw to ghost coverage, one-on-one coverage, 7-on-7s and finally 11-on-11s. He threw a very nice ball. Very strong arm, but was finally more consistent on delivering a tight spiral to his receivers. QB coach Jeff Grady still had to work with him on gripping the ball though, which means he's not quite where he needs to be yet. He's shown definite improvement though, but his inconsistency is enough for me to hold my breath should he see time. That being said, opposing defenses will have to do the same.

For people familiar with previous fall camps, it's pretty obvious that this year's group of rookies is more advanced than in years past. They are bigger physically, more athletic and more adaptive to the college practice style. Competition for jobs should be heated for years, which should only make this team and players better during the season.

Running back Mike Harris had the play of the day on the second to last play of the rookies' session. He broke free on a run for about 40 yards before lowering his shoulder and flattening Terrance Dennis, igniting a host of screams from teammates. As a response, DT Anthony Williams busted through the line on the next play for a 3-4 yard tackle for loss.

Special teams (as always) remains a focus for the Bulldogs. The return game should be more lethal than ever and ideally set up the team with excellent field position to make it easier on breaking in the new QBs.

Derek Carr and Ryan Colburn are going to make Pat Hill have a tough call. The two of them can make all the throws, though Carr seems to have more velocity. Carr seems to be more comfortable with his position (both as a QB and leader) every day, and is making up ground if not passing Colburn. Both make out throws, fly routes and fade/corner routes with ease. The offense has already been opened up in practice. Either way, it's hard to imagine QB being a weak spot this year.

Richard Pacheco has taken most of the first team reps at center, but Joe Bernardi is just plain good.

The defensive line should have much more depth this year, in addition to size, speed and experience. Expect much better production.

Wide receivers coach Keith Williams is paying and will pay huge dividends for the wide receivers. I feel like I've improved ten-fold as a receiver just by watching him work. Now apply that to the receivers.

Ryan Skidmore continued where he left off today. By my count, he leads the team in fights when the team is dressed in full pads, going back to last year. He can really run though, and will be a very tough cover. Vince Pascoe and Nico Herron also got testy today.

Kyle Knox looks much bigger, faster and most importantly, confident on the field. Not the best year to be an opposing running back.

Jamel Hamler will be great by the time he leaves here. Awesome routes, great hands and can run.

No Richard Marshall-types at CB (yet), but the depth appears to be better than it's been in a while.

Looking forward to the day rookies mix it up with the vets. Robbie Rouse has been making some noise, and the linebackers are more seasoned than anyone thought.

All in a day(s) at Fresno State football camp.

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Let's get physical (but not too physical)

Practice seemed to start out a little lazy (Sunday afternoon style) on Day 4, but that quickly changed when Pat Hill went off on the guys for just going through the motions. In typical Hill fashion, he usually gets loud and gets after the guys at some point during fall camp (tough love style).

Today was that day for the "rookies" as he called 'em. Hill didn't like the way guys weren't going 100%, using a popcorn analogy to get his point across. He said he wanted to hear "one big explosion" as guys were hitting each other, not a few pads popping on one side followed by more hitting on the other.

The players defintely responded as true freshman linebacker Daniel Salinas slammed into the O-line on the next play, and redshirt freshman offensive lineman Max Devlin pancaked true freshman defensive end Terrance Kindle.

Robbie Rouse is still wowing pretty much everyone. Yesterday he had Bulldog Bouncers wondering aloud if he should be the punt returner this year. Today, he blocked a punt in special teams drills.

One of the most impressive parts of the day were the fade routes to the corner of the end zone thrown by Derek Carr and Ryan Colburn. Interesting to note that Carr took the first reps with the offense today. But both looked far better than Tom Brandstater ever was at putting touch on passes.

Cornerback coverage was encouraging -- Desia Dunn seems to have progressed quite a bit since last season. There's no reason A.J. Jefferson shouldn't be a dominant cover corner. He has the speed, length and athleticism to be one of the best in school history...it's an absolute mystery why he didn't play more defense last year. Isaiah Green made one standout play to jump a route and bat a pass to the ground.

That said, Seyi Ajirotutu did some damage of his own, with two acrobatic catches in the corner of the end zone in tight coverage. Jamel Hamler is a weapon in press coverage, which is encouraging considering the lack of seperation receivers got the past three years.

So much to talk about already, but let us know what questions you have and we'll address those in comments and future posts...?

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Half pads, full contact

OK, well not completely full contact, but the 'Dogs were out in half pads today (waist up) and hitting. Sounded good to hear pads popping, and hope those of you following on twitter enjoyed the instant updates.

O-line got a bit interesting today with Leslie Cooper getting first-team reps at left guard and Devan Cunningham at right tackle.

True freshman Lars Bramer (at 6-foot-5) is getting scout team work at center.

Absolutely love the hands on, fundamental, energetic coaching styles of Will Plemons (D-line) and Keith Williams (receivers). And loved hearing Randy Stewart continually yell for his defense to cause "chaos!" during 11-on-11 drills.

Although JC D-line prospect Donnie Pritchett (highly touted out of Santa Rosa JC) was participating in summer voluntary practices, today was his first real practice with the team. He wasn't in pads yet (per the rules) but is defintely a big, athletic looking guy.

Three days into camp, and I'm already willing to argue for true freshman Robbie Rouse to start at punt returner. He's just awe-inspiring with his slashing around defenders and into the open field. He had darn near every coach oohing and aahing at some point today.

Still way too many open receivers being underthrown by Ebahn Feathers. But he broke off some nice runs today. Don't underestimate Derek Carr's wheels either.

Very surprised how built Ibe Nduka is (No. 59) and how tall Pat Su'ua is (No. 30). Scout team drills started with Damion Whittington, Jeremiah Toma and Travis Brown at linebacker (with Toma in the middle). Food for thought...

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Live fall camp tweets

Follow the Bulldog Bounce blog on twitter, and look for live fall camp tweets through next week!

http://twitter.com/BulldogBounce

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Campin' on Day 2

Let's start with the scout team (since those guys are first to hit the field in the mornings during split squads).

True freshman running back Robbie Rouse is flat out agile. Think Clifton Smith's body type...but shorter. And he's wearing No. 8 (what's up with that David Carr)? If anyone should get to don the 8, it should be Derek Carr.

Redshirt freshman receiver A.J. Johnson is good. He'll be the next relative unknown to emerge at receiver, but the corps might be too crowded for an emergence this year. No doubt though, the kid has legit speed and route-running ability. He's a guy to get excited about.

Redshirt freshman QB Ebahn Feathers is still workin' scout team reps, and not really spending time running the ball for now. Passing wise, he's been picked off by true freshmen each of the first two days -- J.B. Dock got him yesterday on a pass into double coverage and Erik Brown got him today, smothering a walk-on receiver on a short route and just snatching the ball away. Don't get too hard on Feathers though, the pick came in a drill with just one receiver and one corner, so it's not like he could look the guy off and throw elsewhere.

O-line coach Derek Frazier seems to be happy with Buchanan's Lars Bramer's effort in drills, but was on Sanger's Nikko Motta early for a lack of effort as Motta half-heartedly jogged through a rep.

As for the veterans:
Interesting to note newcomers Matt Hunt (offensive guard) and L.J. Jones (cornerback) are already working with the vets.

Tons of praise being shouted out for receiver Jamel Hamler today. Hamler was forced to sit out last season (academics) but is talented enough to be the No. 1 receiver.

Highlight of the day: the team worked 11-on-11 drills briefly (in shells, not pads) and a gaping hole was opened by the O-line, allowing Anthony Harding to burst one up the gut and go the distance.

A heck of a battle is unfolding for the starting free safety spot between junior Lorne Bell and redshirt freshman Phillip Thomas. Both seem to have passed Marvin Haynes on the depth chart.

Should be interesting to see if Logan Harrell and Chase McEntee hang on to the starting defensive tackle spots, considering last year's starters (Mark Roberts and Cornell Banks) also return, as does former starter Wilson Ramos.

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Random musings from Day 1 of fall camp

Welcome to Fresno true freshmen! Just don't expect 82 degree highs in the forecast, well, ever again. It was a rarity for August in The No (which I prefer to call The Yes) and Pat Hill let the newcomers know it.

Though there's no official word on it, this blogger suspects we also won't see Ebahn Feathers leaving the practice field with the scout team many more days. Sure, practicing with the reserves gives Feathers a chance to get the lion's share of reps, but he's going to need work with the guys who will be on the field when he enters the game for special packages.

Let's hope we don't see too many more dropped passes, especially by Marlon Moore, who got off to a rocky start on Thursday. Devon Wylie (who new receivers coach Keith Williams calls "Tim Dwight" all too often) looked polished and pristine.

Speaking of Williams, mark my words now the 'Dogs found themselves a special young coach. He's boisterous and energetic, but most importantly pays attention to the tiny details that were lacking last year under John Baxter's direction.

WAY too early to decide the Ryan Colburn-Derek Carr battle, but after Day 1, Carr gets a point for the speed with which he drops back to pass. Colburn gets a point for handling Joey Bernardi's snaps more cleanly.

Though we hear Devan Cunningham dropped 30 pounds every offseason...this time, I believe it. Other guys who look slimmer, trimmer and more defined: Ben Jacobs, Kenny Borg, Damion Owens, Nico Herron, Richard Pacheco.

So far, the battle for the sweatiest shirt is neck and neck between Bernardi and new defensive coordinator Randy Stewart. Bernardi is the first person to give Stewart a run...ever!

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