UNLV defense looking good in practice

UNLV’s defense stood out at this morning’s practice, making several big plays to wrap up the first week of spring football drills.

Cornerback Quinton Pointer intercepted a pass, end Preston Brooks and tackles Malo Taumua and Nate Holloway recorded sacks, end Daniel Mareko batted down a pass, linebacker Starr Fuimaono broke up a pass, and linebacker Ronnie Paulo had a tackle for a loss.

"I think we’re making improvement," coach Bobby Hauck said. "I don’t think any facet of what we’re doing is anything to write home about just yet. But we’re improving daily, which is the goal."

Hauck said it was the team’s best practice so far, but cautioned plenty of time remains between now and the Sept. 4 opener against Wisconsin at Sam Boyd Stadium.

"It doesn’t mean we’re game ready," he said.

OFFENSE ALSO DID SOME GOOD THINGS

The offense had its moments, too.

Quarterback Caleb Herring threw probably the prettiest pass of the morning, connecting deep over the middle to wide receiver Irshad Stolden for about a 30-yard gain.

Wide receiver Michael Johnson particularly stood out, turning a pair of catch-and-runs into 15-yard gains and later making a tough diving catch for a 7-yard pick-up.

NOTABLE SPECTATORS

Plenty of ex-Rebels showed up at Rebel Park, including former defensive back Charles Dimry, who played in the NFL from 1988 to 2000. Some of the other former players on hand included wide receiver Ryan Wolfe, offensive lineman Tim Goins, tailback Chris Brogdon and all-purpose player Hunkie Cooper. Now the coach at Canyon Springs, Cooper was one of many high school head and assistant coaches in attendance for the practice and the coaches’ clinic.

A future Rebel also was at practice — tight end Anthony Vidal, this year’s recruiting class’ only junior-college player.

Even two assistant coaches from last season’s were there — defensive coordinator Dennis Therrell and running backs coach DeAndre Smith. Smith was in town the spring break at Illinois, where he now is an assistant. He wore an Illinois sweat shirt to practice.

FOOTBALLS ON THE GROUND

A fumble by a running back or receiver results in an immediate jog around one of the practice fields by the offending party. Hauck saw too many jogs this week.

"That part of it’s been unacceptable," he said.

NO CHANGES YET

Hauck has held off on many any major position changes, but said the roster will be re-evaluated during spring break, which is at the end of the month.

"Even if we do that — we don’t have a crystal ball — it will be an experimental phase," Hauck said.

UP NEXT

The Rebels take today off before returning to practice at 4 p.m. Monday.