PROVO — BYU quarterback Max Hall's first pass of Friday's scrimmage was intercepted by redshirt freshman defensive back Garrett Nicholson.

Then, between Hall and backup QB Brenden Gaskins, the Cougar offense threw seven consecutive incompletions. Later, Hall regrouped and led the offense on a drive that culminated with a touchdown pass to tight end Dennis Pitta.

While the defense won the day overall on Friday — after the offense scored four times on four possessions on Thursday — the general feeling was that it was a good sign to see the defense make plays.

"It's absolutely a good sign," said Hall, who completed 5-of-12 passes for 60 yards. "I think our offense is going to be just as good or better than it was last year. To see our defense match us and sometimes make plays on us is huge. It's a team effort. It's not about one side or another. It's about playing as a team. I think we're going to do that better than we did last year. When I see the 'D' make plays, sometimes I get mad but inside I'm saying, 'That's what we need.' "

Coach Bronco Mendenhall said he wasn't concerned to see Hall struggle early on.

"It really isn't because the defense actually did a really nice job and had a good day. It swings back and forth. Anytime in spring practice one side or the other is dominant for longer than a day or two, that's when I get concerned. I actually prefer it when swings like that. It's good for the team, good for the chemistry and good for the development of players on both sides."

The scrimmage, which featured a number of different situations, closed out the second week of spring practice.

"It was really a positive scrimmage in terms of learning and two-minute situations and handling clock management and overtime," Mendenhall said. "A lot of valuable lessons learned."

One of the most impressive plays of the day was made by Nicholson, who stepped in front of wide receiver O'Neill Chambers to pick off Hall's pass.

"Garrett Nicholson is going to be a good football player for us," Mendenhall said. "He's improving every day this spring."

COACHES CLINIC: More than 300 high school coaches descended on campus Friday for the annual coaching clinic hosted by the BYU staff. The visiting coaches, who came from not only Utah but also throughout the region, including Wyoming, Idaho, Colorado, Texas and Hawaii, spent the day attending seminars and watching the Cougars' practice and scrimmage.

"It's been a phenomenal day," Mendenhall said. "Great turnout."