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*There was no live tackling in the first day of full pads. It was more about getting used to them on the first day for them, so expect a bit more action come Thursday’s first two-a-day. The first session begins at 8:30 a.m. and the second session is scheduled for 5 p.m. UCLA coach Jim Mora feels that schedule will better suit the Bruins in regards to the heat, saying that the cooler weather will help. But really at this point players and coaches are getting used to the heat, and so are we.
**Mora wouldn’t say during what session the team would wear pads. “Either in the morning or in the evening,” he said.
***Offensive linemen Greg Capella, Jeff Baca and Brett Downey did not practice, giving the defensive line the upper hand. Taylor Lagace recorded a virtual sack and the pressure forced an interception by Anthony Jefferson off Mike Fafaul. Johnathan Franklin also fumbled off his knee and Daton Jones forced a fumble recovered by Eric Kendricks during 11-on-11. Kevin Prince had a heated exchange with Aaron Hester after he tackled then pushed a receiver to the ground. Prince took issue with that and reamed him. But Prince was average during his reps. Jerry Neuheisel also got in the mix and connected on a 40-yard touchdown pass to a speeding Darius Bell. Neuheisel ala Mark Sanchez spread his arms and raced to the end zone to celebrate with Bell. Brett Hundley did not take part.
****There’s still no update on tackle Torian White who left practice over the weekend with chest pains. LB Patrick Larimore, as expected, did not practice after suffering a concussion on Monday. LB Anthony Barr had a cast wrapped around his left hand after suffering an injury to his left pinky knuckle. He practiced in full pads. WR Jerry Johnson left in the middle of practice after suffering a mild groin strain. S Dalton Hilliard practiced but left after pursuit drills. OL Alberto Cid left practice after he got hit in the head. No concussion, so he should be fine. WR Ricky Marvray will see more time at practice on Thursday. Mora said DT Ellis McCarthy’s knee is improving very well but gave no indication on his return.
*******Ahmad Harris continues to make strides. He impressed during scissor routes, making several nice catches to the sideline. Shaq Evans, Devin Lucien and Jerry Rice Jr. lead the group but keep an eye on Kenny Walker, Javon Williams and Jordan Payton, all who bring versatility to a group that may also include Darius Bell’s speed. Mora talks about the group in the video above and here below is a video of Williams. Making this a short post. Long day tomorrow. Leaving the house at 7 a.m. and will try to be home, hopefully, by 9 p.m.