Blue roundup: Jake Heaps' grooming begins at Kansas

Former BYU quarterback Jake Heaps is the backup quarterback at Kansas as the Jayhawks start spring practices.

"It was a minor surprise that junior quarterback Jake Heaps, another talented transfer from BYU, held the backup position behind Crist. Because of NCAA transfer rules, Heaps must sit out this season," reported the Kansas City Star. "(Coach Charlie) Weis said he will use Heaps this spring as if he were getting ready to play in the fall. That will change in the summer, when the Jayhawks are preparing for the season. But for now, Weis foresees Heaps as the potential starter in 2013 — and he wants to plan accordingly."

The Orlando Sentinel has compiled "Ten games to watch by independent teams this season."

BYU, which concludes spring drills on Friday, appears three times on this list, with games against Utah, Boise State and Notre Dame.

"Speaking of renewing rivalries, Notre Dame will play host to BYU for the first time since the 2005 season. The Irish are 3-1 overall against the Cougars at Notre Dame Stadium with the only loss coming in 1994, when BYU beat Notre Dame, 21-14."

Turning to basketball, the West Coast Conference will be adding a 10th member, according to the Stockton Record. The University of the Pacific is expected to be added for the 2013-14 academic year. BYU joined the WCC last July.