Defense shines in UNLV’s morning football practice

ELY — Defense made its share of big plays in this morning's UNLV football practice.

Sophomore linebacker Tim Hasson returned an interception 60 yards for a touchdown, and junior safety Dre Crawford made his second interception in two days. Sophomore defensive end Ian Bobak made two sacks, and senior linebacker Nate Carter had a tackle for a loss.

The offense had its moments, too. Sophomore running back Tim Cornett rushed for a 57-yard touchdown, and sophomore wide receiver Marcus Sullivan made three nifty jukes to score a 40-yard TD.

NEW BLOOD

Junior defensive end Alvin Amilcar (6 feet 4 inches, 265 pounds), who went to College of the Sequoias in Visalia, Calif., is trying to catch up after a late start to get physically cleared. Coach Bobby Hauck said he has high hopes the walk-on will make an impact.

"Defensive end is certainly a position we're short-handed and have not had great production," Hauck said. "He needs to come and show what he can do, and it obviously would be a great deal for us if he can contribute.

"His junior college film is great. He hasn't had a chance to do much yet."

INJURY REPORT

Junior guard Jason Heath was back in uniform, though he still was restricted some because of a neck injury.

Also, the knee injury to junior H-back Aaron Reed appears serious.

"His knee's pretty swollen right now," Hauck said. "It doesn't look very good. He's going to rehab it while we're up here, and when we get back to Vegas, we'll make some decisions."