Camp report: Day 4

“Good competition.” That’s how Utah coach Kyle Whittingham described Thursday’s practice.
“We’ve still got a lot of work to do. That’s evident,” Whittingham said. “It was a positive practice — another step forward — but there’s no doubt we need all 25 practices, whatever we’ve got left.”
Whittingham noted that some of the newcomers in the program we emerging from the pack and making their presence felt.
Topping the list is wide receiver David Reed. Whittingham said the junior college transfer is getting better each day and will become more of a factor as he gets into better shape and learns the system.
Other players making an early impression include defensive back Damilyn Tanner and tight end Brad Clifford.
Whittingham said Tanner is “showing drastic improvement” and Clifford was awarded a scholarship on Wednesday.
The Utes have completed the NCAA’s acclimatization period and will practice in full pads for the first time in camp on Friday.
“We’ll liven things up and have some live work,” Whittingham said. “That’s when you really get a feel for what you’ve got and what guys are able to compete.”
EXTRA POINTS: Tight end Neli A’asa had a successful scope on his knee and is expected to be back on the practice field in about 10 days. The target day is Monday, Aug. 18th . . . A’asa is Utah’s only injury of note, thus far . . . Whittingham said the Aiona Key situation is “out of our hands.” Key will join the Utes as soon as his final junior college grade is posted. Whittingham is hopeful it will be resolved by this weekend.