Utah Utes football: Talented trio of newcomers battling for reps at running back

"It's pretty wide open. But you know we all compete and whoever works hardest gets the position," he said, while noting the players are keeping it all in proper perspective. "We all love each other. We all back each other up. We're a big family. So when someone's in, we're rooting for them. So it's not too bad."

As the self-proclaimed "stranger" who entered the race as a walk-on, Palamo knows the other two backs have highlights and are well known as running backs.

Even so, he considers it a healthy competition. It's also quite competitive.

"We all want to play," Palamo said. "But we're all willing to share the rock. We've all become pretty good friends."

Running back race

Utah opens camp with three running backs sharing the top spot on the depth chart.

HARVEY LANGI (6-1, 225, freshman): Former Bingham High star graduated early and enrolled at Utah in January.

THRETTON PALAMO (6-2, 240, sophomore): International rugby star walked on to the football team in spring ball.

JOHN WHITE IV (5-8, 186, junior): Transfer rushed for 2,527 yards and 34 touchdowns at L.A. Harbor (Calif.) College.Utah camp report

DAY 2: The Utes practiced in helmets and shorts Friday morning at Rice-Eccles Stadium.

STANDOUTS: Utah coach Kyle Whittingham said quarterback Jordan Wynn was solid once again. He also praised the play of wide receivers DeVonte Christopher and Reggie Dunn. On defense, Whittingham said lineman Joe Kruger and safety Keith McGill continued to improve and show a lot of "positive things."

INJURIES: Linebacker Brian Blechen returned to practice after suffering a bee sting in his throat Thursday. Wide receiver Anthony Denham, however, could be out for weeks with a hamstring injury.

NEXT UP: Practice resumes Saturday morning with the addition of shoulder pads.Utah camp report

DAY 2: The Utes practiced in helmets and shorts Friday morning at Rice-Eccles Stadium.

STANDOUTS: Utah coach Kyle Whittingham said quarterback Jordan Wynn was solid once again. He also praised the play of wide receivers DeVonte Christopher and Reggie Dunn. On defense, Whittingham said lineman Joe Kruger and safety Keith McGill continued to improve and show a lot of "positive things."

INJURIES: Linebacker Brian Blechen returned to practice after suffering a bee sting in his throat Thursday. Wide receiver Anthony Denham, however, could be out for weeks with a hamstring injury.

NEXT UP: Practice resumes this morning with the addition of shoulder pads.Running back race

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