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Jarrell Oliver knew everyone would expect returner John White and junior college transfer Kelvin York to get the most touches among Utah's running backs.

But that hasn't stopped the redshirt freshman from Sugar Land, Texas, from going hard during spring ball.

The 5-foot-8, 210-pound Oliver said his biggest adjustment was getting accustomed to the physical play at the college level. Now that he has that down, he is feeling better about his game.

"In high school you don't have to go as hard and you can still break lines," he said. "Here it is a constant grind to get through the hole. But now that I've got a year under my belt, I can read the holes better," Oliver said. "I'm trying my best to compete to get into the rotation this year."

The hard work is paying off as both Utah coach Kyle Whittingham and offensive coordinator Brian Johnson acknowledged Oliver is playing well enough to deserve some touches this season.

"He is a grinder and playmaker," Johnson said after Saturday's scrimmage when Oliver rushed 11 times for 49 yards. "When we handed it to him he did a nice job."

The running back spot already seemed loaded with not only White and York on the depth chart but also sophomore Harvey Langi ahead of Oliver.

However, Johnson said he can make room for all of them, noting each brings a different characteristic to the position.

"Everyone knows what John brings to the table," Johnson said. "Kelvin is a big bruiser type. Harvey is very dynamic, and we have the ability to flex him out. And Jarrell is just a good, solid, all-around back."

Whittingham likes how Oliver is running but said he still needs work in picking up the blitz.

"That is critical," he said. "You've got to do your part."

A work in progress

One area that Whittingham remains concerned about is the kicking game despite the return of Coleman Petersen, who earned honorable mention Pac-12 honors in 2011 when he finished second in field goals made (18) and field goal percentage (18-of-25).

In Saturday's scrimmage, however, he was just 3-of-5 from 20-40 yards out and 1-of-5 from 50 yards out, making a 51-yarder.

The kickers had a better day Tuesday, but still are under scrutiny.

"Coleman made a lot of pressure kicks for us last year," Whittingham said. "But you have to be consistent day in and day out."

Injury report

York missed Tuesday's practice with a sprained knee but should be back in practice Thursday. ... Corner Ryan Lacy sat out Tuesday for precautionary reasons after getting hit but should be back later this week.

O-line changes

Jeremiah Tofaeono is now the starting left guard and Sam Brenner is starting at right guard. Brenner is backed up by Miles Mason who started last year. Latu Heimuli has moved from right to left guard to back up Tofaeono.