Silver and Gold game to wrap up solid spring football practice sessions at Idaho

University of Idaho coach Nick Holt can’t recall his football team having a bad practice during spring drills, which makes his goal for the annual Silver and Gold scrimmage simple.

“I want the kids to come away from it feeling good,” Holt said. “I thought last year we got sloppy with a bunch of turnovers and stupid plays.”

The scrimmage, which concludes spring practices, begins at 7 tonight in the Kibbie Dome. Holt said the first-team offense and defense will square off, in part because he wants the play to be crisp. Bob Magonigle of Coeur d’Alene and Clyde Conklin of Clarkston will be the honorary coaches.

The Vandals should have more starters available than they did for last Saturday’s scrimmage in Post Falls. Offensive linemen Jade Tadvick and Desmond Clark, cornerback Jason Martin, safety Tone Taupule, receiver Daniel Smith and linebacker Cole Snyder are expected to participate.

“I love our practice tempo,” Holt said. “Our work ethic and attitude is excellent and we really got the JC guys that came in January up to speed.”

Position battles continue at quarterback, safety, linebacker, defensive end and offensive line. Even if somebody plays lights out tonight, it probably wouldn’t be enough to secure a job. Those decisions will likely be made in August, but this is the best chance for players to make a lasting impression.

JC transfer Steven Wichman is battling returning starter Michael Harrington at quarterback.

“I’m excited about the quarterback position,” Holt said. “They’re getting better. Wichman has learned the offense and he had a really good week last week, but Michael’s getting better, too.”

The offense is progressing on schedule, but Holt wants to see more from the defense.

“We have to work on our temperament and nastiness,” Holt said.

The search for team leaders is on-going, but there’s no shortage of candidates. “It seems like different guys are leading,” Holt said, “but there’s isn’t the one, two or three guys that have stood out.”