The Cougars worked out in helmets and shoulder pads for just over two hours on Rogers Field Thursday. Despite no being in full pads, intensity was probably the highest its been all spring as a couple skirmishes broke out during the practice.

Practice opened with the offense working on one field with the defense working on the opposite field. The defense was working on a pop and chase drill, with four players popping the sled before racing to one sideline. There were three cones set up on the sideline and the four players were racing to grab one of the cones, the one that didn't get a cone, did a couple up-downs. High intensity drills that set the tone for the day. Tons of energy by each defensive coach as well as the players.

The offense continued to work through its passing drills before working through 7-vs.-7. Quarterbacks Connor Halliday and Jeff Tuel rotated operating the No. 1 and No. 2 offenses. The highlight of the day came from the offense after a couple big hits by the defense. Running back Leon Brooks took a screen pass from Tuel, got behind his blockers and scampered some 50+ yards for the score, causing the offensive players to storm the field and sprint to the end zone to celebrate with the always-smiling Brooks.

A newcomer followed with a nice play of his own minutes later as running back Teondray Caldwell juked a defender, resulting in the defender falling down and offense to again celebrate on the field.

Much more competitive practice today, just what coach Leach said he was looking for after Tuesday's sluggish workout.

Saturday's practice has been pushed back to 1:10 p.m. in Martin Stadium. The Cougars will work out and are expected to scrimmage for a majority of the practice.

GO COUGS!

Check out the post-practice interviews with Coach Leach, Deone Bucannon and Jeff Tuel by visiting INSIDE COUGAR FOOTBALL