Utah football: Erickson getting accustomed to old, new view

The refreshments are better, the seats are a little more plush, but the view is the same.

For Utah co-offensive coordinator Dennis Erickson, a lot and then not much, has changed since he last coached from the press box.

Erickson, who hasn't served as a coordinator since he was at San Jose State from 1979-81, is getting accustomed to his new perch during Utah's scrimmages.

His first impression? "It's a long ways," to the field, he said.

"For one thing, you can see everything, 'Why don't you throw it there, why don't you throw it here, what the hell are you doing?' " Erickson joked.

Erickson has been a head coach with nine organizations since his days at San Jose State. Being on the field put him closer to the action and players, but he likes the system he has now, with co-coordinator Brian Johnson working closely with the quarterbacks.

"I will call some plays and he will call some and help him," Erickson said. "We'll work together, and I think it will be great.

"People can't throw stuff up there at you unless they have good arms," he joked.

That wasn't the case at San Jose State, where the press box was rickety and the crowd was adjacent to the coordinators.

"You're calling plays and the fans are yelling at you," Erickson said. "I remember there was one guy when I was coaching, who was smoking. I lean over and say, 'Can I bum one from you?' "

Erickson said he'll be back in the press box during Saturday's scrimmage so he can continue to adjust.

Edging ahead

Sophomore running back James Poole has the edge on the No. 2 running back spot, Utah coach Kyle Whittingham said Thursday.

The 6-foot, 196-pound Poole gives the Utes a different look than starter Kelvin York (5-11, 220).

"He is a more elusive, perimeter guy," he said.

Of note

Quarterback Travis Wilson took a few snaps Thursday morning. He is limited due to a mild left ankle sprain. ... Freshman Chase Dominguez has solidified his role as the snapper, Whittingham said.