Well, it had to happen at some point, the Utah Utes are taking one of their receivers and making him into a corner.
At least for the time being, redshirt freshman Ryan Lacy has moved to the defensive side. Utah coach Kyle Whittingham reeled off several past players who have made the same move, including Brice McCain and Sean Smith in an effort to bolster Utah's defense.
"Now is the time to take a look at him," Whittingham said.
Lacy, who is Utah's fastest receiver with a 4.38 in the 40-yard dash, has only limited experience on defense but should make the transition easily enough, Whittingham said.
"Natural ability and speed and quickness are the primary criteria," he said. "We try and keep things simple scheme-wise and let them use their natural ability."
Lacy's move is also a sign that Whittingham believes Utah's receivers are strong enough as a group to lose a guy to defense. Veterans Aiona Key, David Reed, Jereme Brooks and quarterback turned receiver DeVonte Christopher have all had solid practices.
"We have a deep crew at wideout and we're also playing to win," Whittingham said. "The No. 1 thing is playing great defense."
Other changes: Junior Walter Watts is listed as the starter at right guard and veteran Zane Taylor is listed as the starter at center, his most comfortable position, but Whittingham reiterated the change may not be permanent.
"We'll keep working with all of them," he said. "The cream will rise to the top."
True freshman Latu Heimuli, who has impressed the coaches in camp, is listed as a backup to tackle behind Lei Talamaivao along with Dave Kruger. Kenape Eliapo has moved ahead of sophomore Sealver Siliga at nose tackle.
Sakoda's new title
'King' Louie Sakoda started his new duty as Utah's student assistant coach Monday. The position is strictly voluntary, but one he is happy to have.
"Obviously I couldn't get enough of it," he said of being with the Utes. "I feel like I'm doing something with my life again."
Veteran Ben Vroman appears to have an edge over freshman Nick Marsh in the battle for place kicker.
