Wieclaw adjusting

Kicker Jake Wieclaw said his focus in camp has been trying to get his kicks up higher and quicker this season. Wieclaw said he had two field-goal attempts blocked last season.

He’s also adjusting to the new NCAA kickoff rules. Starting this season, teams will kick off at the 35-yard line instead of the 30.

Another significant rule change affects touchbacks, which will now be moved to the 25-yard line instead of the 20. Touchbacks on other plays, such as punts in the end zone or fumbles that go out of the end zone, will remain at the 20-yard line.

“It’s kind of a trade-off,” Wieclaw said. “The 35 is a little bit shorter field so it’s easier to get it out there. So hang time is something we’re focusing on. We don’t always wanted to just kick out of the end zone and let them have it at the 25.”

Williams gains weight

Redshirt freshman Ricardo Williams, listed as the backup to Anthony Chickillo at defensive end, has gained 35 pounds in the past year, going from 220 to 255. Williams said it has helped him improve tremendously on run defense.

“I feel like I still got my speed and my quickness,” Williams said. “I’m at 255, but you don’t really see it.”

MANNY NAVARRO