Idaho Vandals defense totals four interceptions in final scrimmage of camp

MOSCOW, Idaho – University of Idaho coach Paul Petrino saw a particularly strong showing from the Vandals’ defensive backfield in the final scrimmage of preseason camp Saturday.

“Some of the guys were covering better than they have,” Petrino said.

“It was good to see them play good. … The front seven has been playing great since last spring.”

Led by senior safety Armond Hawkins’ two interceptions, the defense picked off Vandals quarterback Matt Linehan four times.

That may not be the greatest stat going into the start of the season if the offense is relying on a senior quarterback who is already among the passing leaders in Idaho’s history.

Defensive coordinator Mike Breske said that the Vandals did their damage out of basic sets, with a minimum of stunting and defensive motion, something Idaho is not likely to see once it begins play Aug. 31 against Sacramento State.

Linehan did link up with a favorite target, senior Jacob Sannon, for a pair of touchdowns early in the workout. He also threw a deep ball in the corner of the end zone for a score to Alfonso Onuwor.