PLAYERS ON THE RISE: After Saturday's practice at the Spence Eccles Field House, Utah coach Kyle Whittingham said that senior quarterback Brian Johnson looked pretty sharp. Whittingham also noted that junior cornerback Sean Smith had a good day. Defensive tackle Lei Talamaivao and center Zane Taylor, he added, continue to get better each day.

INJURY REPORT: Junior center Tyler Williams, who injured his shoulder on Thursday, could be back next week. Time will tell, Whittingham said when acknowledging it's an optimistic return date. Sophomore linebacker Jamel King dinged his knee and may miss the rest of spring ball.

NOTES: Utah's next practice is Tuesday from 3-5 p.m. at the practice fields west of the Smith Center. It'll cap three consecutive tackle practices ... The Utes' first scrimmage is Saturday from 9:50 to noon ... All practices and scrimmages are open to the public.