Aug. 20, 1997
Seconday Shines as Football Camp Passes Halfway Point
Cal's 10-day football camp in Turlock passed the halfway point Tuesday with the
team going through another pair of 2 1/2 hour practices. The weather was
unusually cool as the temperature was in the lower 70s by late afternoon and a
few sprinkles fell near the end of the morning session.
Some of the day's highlights included a 90-yard punt by freshman Nick Harris
and a pair of interceptions by defensive backs Brent Vartan and Scott Fujita.
In fact, the secondary as a whole had perhaps its most impressive day of camp,
consistently providing tight coverage and knocking down several passes, in
addition to the two interceptions.
On the offensive side, tight end Brian Surgener made a couple of nice catches,
including a diving reception for a touchdown in 7-on-7 drills. Surgener is
enjoying an excellent camp, particularly catching the football. However, depth
at tight end continues to be an issue as JC transfer A.J. Kunkle is still
recovering from arthhroscopic surgery on his knee and won't return to action
for at least another week. Freshman TE Corey Smith reported today that his
sprained ankle is feeling much improved and that he hopes to be back in action
by Tuesday.
Tailback Tarik Smith was held out of much of both practices Tuesday as the
coaches readied him to work with the first team in Wednesday's scrimmage.
"We don't want to wear him down," said head coach Tom Holmoe. "He'll take plays
with the first group in the scrimmage and get a number of reps. He's not
tip-toeing through the line, and that's a good thing to see."
Cal tailback Brandon Willis had a scare in the afternoon practice after being
hit during a drill. He was taken to a local hospital for precautionary reasons,
but returned a short time later. The medical staff termed his injury a stinger
and felt he could be back in a few days.
