From the beat writers’ notebook pieces, Tyler Palko is trying to pump up the receivers a bit after they took criticism from Coach Wannstedt the day before.

Palko said he’s happy with the progress the receivers have made and offered a gentle reminder that they may be playing at a bit of a disadvantage.

“We need a guy to step up but you have to remember something — we have two of the best corners in the country,” Palko said. “[Darrelle Revis and Josh Lay] — those two are really good. So it is tough enough for young guys to learn the system but to then have to do it against two really good players makes it tougher.”

One receiver who did have an excellent practice yesterday is freshman Oderick Turner. He made some catches, including a tough one for a first down when he jumped high and pulled the ball out of the air.

The (Redshirt and True) Freshmen receivers should have excellent opportunities to earn playing time and vie for the 3rd receiver. Terrell Allen, for all his talent and expectations, can’t seem to stay healthy to earn playing time (this year’s Princell Brockenbrough). None of the other receivers stepped up last year and don’t seem to be this year.

Freshman Irvan Brown broke up a pass play in a goal line stand in scrimmage with everyone watching and cheering. Should do wonders for his confidence at being converted from RB to DB.

Shane Brooks and Conredge Colllins both looked good in the backfield yesterday. Definitely a good day for the new kids.

No new injuries. Right Guard John Simonitis was back from his sore hamstring. Greg Lee is getting closer to returning.