First practice is in the books

Took my own picture for once

Finding too much excitement in a first practice is something I was guilty of in my younger years. These days though, I've learned well enough that a first practice is exactly that, and shouldn't come with too much excitement or worry. There are a lot more practices to go and plenty that can change.

Still, there are observations to at least be had and impressions to take away. What is exciting to keep an eye on is if the good aspects can be sustained and if the sore spots can be improved upon.

So after a day of casually observing the first practice, which only included helmets, here's some bullet points...

• Joe Hill looked to be doing all he needed to do. He ran well and caught well. All of it was enough to catch my eye a fair amount. Kennedy Williams looked to be holding his own too for a freshman. It's easy to see the resemblance to his brother.
• Cornerbacks were fantastic, particularly Rashard Stewart. Nothing came easy for the wide receivers in team drills because of the pressure brought by the corners. Nevin Lawson also was pretty excellent.
• Speaking of wideouts, I'm hoping today was the shaking off of some rust for them. A lot of dropped balls in their individual drills. In their defense, the quarterbacks throwing a lot of those balls also looked to be honing in too, making things a little difficult. Still, nothing overly encouraging there. Kept an especially close eye on Alex Wheat today, and for what it's worth, he didn't really disappoint either. A drop here and there, but all in all, I dare say he was one of the best out there with that unit.
• Tight ends looked solid all-around.
• We're all well-aware of the five returning starters on the offensive line, but who steps in as the second unit is a question mark. Today it looked like the second unit consisted of Logan Malohifo'ou, Taani Fisilau, Joe Summers, Bill Vavau, and Jake Simonich. Just an early impression, but definitely something to keep an eye on. If all of the young guys are able to redshirt, that will be nice for some continued depth in the future.
• Jaron Bentrude was owning it on punts today. After a solid spring from him, I dare say I'm encouraged about how our punting situation is shaping up.

That's all for today. Again, not a ton should be taken from just one day, especially the first day. But it can at least give an idea of things to look for moving forward.