The Commercial Appeal

Top 5 observatio­ns following Memphis’ 1st day in full pads

- Evan Barnes Memphis Commercial Appeal USA TODAY NETWORK - TENNESSEE

Memphis couldn't wait to get in full pads and it showed Wednesday with an added intensity.

Unlike Sunday, tempers rarely flared with more hitting but the offense rose to the challenge with one of its best days so far in preseason camp. There were multiple scoring drives, including on the first series of practice with junior Brady White connecting with sophomore wide receiver Damonte Coxie.

Here's five quick observatio­ns from practice:

Junior running back Darrell Henderson

had a stellar day. He had a long rushing touchdown where he made a quick cut before bursting down the left side of the field. He later caught a short touchdown pass from White, then at the end of practice, he had a beautiful spin move off sophomore Tim Hart that led to another long gain.

Senior wide receiver Sam Craft

had the day's best moment. He caught an over-the-shoulder pass from White that became a touchdown and the whole offense ran over to celebrate. For a player that just got his sixth year of eligibilit­y, it was a nice scene that he hopes won't be the last time.

Freshman McBride quarterbac­k Brady

continues to make strides. The Texas native throws a great deep ball that's accurate, and head coach Mike

Norvell was high on how well he understand­s the offense so far.

Senior linebacker Curtis Akins

was a bright spot on a tough day for the defense. He had a touch sack and added an intercepti­on off David Moore. Sophomore La'Andre Thomas had an intercepti­on after junior Sean Dykes bobbled a catch.

White continued to get more first team reps at quarterbac­k during 11-on-11 drills but Norvell said both

will get their share of first team reps during Saturday's scrimmage. What's clear already is White has a great connection with Dykes as the two linked up for several catches.

David Moore White and

 ?? MARK WEBER, THE COMMERCIAL APPEAL ?? University of Memphis coach Mike Norvell (middle) watches his players during the first day of practice for the 2018-19 season.
MARK WEBER, THE COMMERCIAL APPEAL University of Memphis coach Mike Norvell (middle) watches his players during the first day of practice for the 2018-19 season.

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