Moscow-Pullman Daily News Blogs

Idaho coach Robb Akey isn’t a hard man to understand.
That was evident at Thursday’s morning practice.
Thursday was the first day of two-a-days, and after a decent start, during the latter part of practice many of the guys on both sides of the ball showed a lack of discipline - and were called out on it.
On Thursday morning Akey didn’t  wear the cheerleader hat, but the mean dad hat, and he wore it well.
When practice came to an end Akey gathered his troops and told them things were OK  but they could be better. That he needed them to play better and that he  expected them to perform better.

At  one point he told his  team that being confident and upbeat and full of expectations is a good thing, but they can’t just talk about it, they need to follow through.
He also told them he expected them to make plays. He said  they shouldn’t always expect praise and they don’t have to showboat for doing their job.
It was a good challenge and I expect the players to respond.
It will be fun to see them scrimmage today at 2:30 p.m.
So far Nate Enderle is looking strong under center, but Brian Reader isn’t far behind. It’s nice to know that regardless of who starts, there’s a strong backup who can take over. It’s something  Idaho  hasn’t had in a while. Neither guys wants that spot, but it certainly gives the Vandals security.
There are a handful of receivers/tight ends stepping up. They seem to have more focus this year than last.
I’ve heard a lot of people asking about the defensive line. I’m looking forward to getting a good look at both lines today. I think out big guys are going to surprise a lot of people.
It will also be good to see our kickers. They, including the long snapper, all have big shoes  to fill, and today they’ll get to perform under a little pressure.