Utes return to practice

Spring break didn't break the University of Utah football program.

After taking 12 days off, the Utes resumed spring practices at chilly Rice-Eccles Stadium.

"It was great. We had good retention from the players as far as schemes and assignments," said Whittingham, who opted for the schedule to maximize the amount of days the NCAA allows for spring football. "I think we'll probably end up doing this from this point forward. I think it's working out."

The spring break interruption of the schedule, he explained, is quite common across the nation.

"There are a lot of positives," said Whittingham.

Utah practiced on March 13 and 15, spending much of the time installing schemes, before shutting things down while school wasn't in session. Whittingham said the Utes didn't show any signs of rust on Tuesday.

"I thought for the first day in pads we moved around pretty good," he said. "We've got a lot of work to do, but that's to be expected. It's only Day 3."

The Utes will begin tackle practices on Thursday. The first of three Saturday scrimmages is set for April 7 with the annual Spring Game on April 21 at the stadium.

NO DISTRACTION: The absence of starting wide receiver Marquis Wilson, who was charged with misdemeanor drunken driving and possession of alcohol by a minor just prior to the start of spring camp, isn't slowing down the Utes. Whittingham insists the team is moving forward.

"We're able to refocus and understand it's an unfortunate situation," said Whittingham. "We're working through it. The legal process is running it's course and right now it's just an indefinite suspension."

EXTRA POINTS: Spring camp is open to the public. Tuesday and Thursday practices run from 3-5 p.m., most likely at the McCarthey Practice Fields (weather permitting). Alternate locations are Rice-Eccles Stadium or the Spence Eccle Field House ... Three returned LDS Church missionaries are in camp: kicker David Carroll, wide receiver Brad Clifford and tight end Paul Kruger ... Fall camp dates have been set. Players report on Aug. 3 with practice kicking off the next day. The first day in full pads is Aug. 8.