Brewster challenges Wheelwright to strive for consistency

Ernie Wheelwright had his best day of fall camp in Saturday's scrimmage, but Gophers coach Tim Brewster issued a challenge to his senior wide receiver afterward.

By Chip Scoggins, Star Tribune

Last update: August 18, 2007 - 9:28 PM

Ernie Wheelwright had his best day of fall camp in Saturday's scrimmage, but Gophers coach Tim Brewster issued a challenge to his senior wide receiver afterward.

"We have to force Ernie to come out [today] and have a great practice," Brewster said. "We need for Ernie Wheelwright to be a player, but he has to decide that he's going to be an everyday player."

Wheelwright finished the scrimmage with seven catches for 116 yards and two touchdowns (20 and 54 yards). Wheelwright has had an up-and-down camp, but he vowed to build on his strong performance.

"Coach made it a real issue to play like that every time I step out on the field," he said. "I can't go back downhill."

Defense shines

The defense started strong, looked stout against the run and had its best moment in goal-line drills. Facing the first-team offense at the 2-yard line, the first-team defense came up with four consecutive stops, including back-to-back tackles for loss.

Etc.

•True freshman cornerback Ryan Collado worked with the first team and made a diving interception. He also made a big tackle on punt coverage after committing a false start.

•True freshman tailback Duane Bennett continued his impressive camp by rushing for 63 yards on 13 carries.

•About 10 recruits attended the scrimmage, including Cretin-Derham Hall wide receiver Michael Floyd and two of the state's top juniors -- Wayzata athlete Fritz Rock and Bloomington Jefferson quarterback Moses Alipate.

•True freshman Harold Howell showed his blazing speed on a pair of long kickoff returns.

Chip Scoggins • ascoggins@startribune.com

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