Having missed one of his main targets for a week, Chase Daniel wasted no time finding Chase Coffman during Wednesday’s practice.
During 7-on-7 drills in the red zone, Daniel hit Coffman for two consecutive touchdowns, eliciting cheers from the offense.
Still wearing a red jersey because of the little finger he broke two weeks ago, Coffman was held out of other drills.
Safety William Moore was unhappy Coffman was protected with the red jersey. “If he can catch it, he can get hit,” he joked.
The two-hour practice was otherwise muted before camp closes with the third and final scrimmage Thursday, which will serve as a final audition for most backups trying to earn playing time this season. The No. 2 offense and defense will see extensive work, Pinkel said.
“A lot of the roles and the players will be set for most of the year. That’s when everybody has to accept their role to help the team win,” Pinkel said.
Questions surround depth at positions such as the offensive line.
“We’ll have to find out who our third tackle’s going to be in the game and who our third guard’s (going to be). We’re not really sure yet how that’s going to come out,” Pinkel said.
But the decision on whether certain freshmen will be redshirted could be prolonged.
“Although a lot will be solidified, there could be a few where you can wait maybe two, three weeks into September before you make the final decision,” Pinkel said.
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Freshman Aldon Smith participated in practice after resolving eligibility issues with the NCAA Clearinghouse.
“That was a great phone call to make to him,” Pinkel said.
Freshmen Drew Temple and Rolandis Woodland are still in limbo with the Clearinghouse.
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More NFL scouts stopped by practice. The Indianapolis Colts, Oakland Raiders, New York Jets and Washington Redskins were all represented.
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Wednesday afternoon’s practice was canceled.
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Players found time for leisure before serious preparations begin for the opener against Illinois next week.
“So what’s your dance move? So what’s your dance move?” Moore rapped while Sean Weatherspoon jiggled on the sideline.
Jaron Baston laughed at Weatherspoon, calling it a “tippy-toe dance.” Then Baston started mimicking the linebacker’s effort, scrunching his shoulders and lumbering on his toes.
