Major injuries not an issue so far in preseason

ELY -- Major injuries haven't been an issue for UNLV's football team this preseason, but some notable players are dealing with various ailments.

Sophomore tailback C.J. Cox has been limited by a hamstring injury. He is in a five-player race for the starting job.

"He's getting better every practice," coach Mike Sanford said. "I don't know when he's going to be able to go full speed, but I'd say probably after Saturday."

Sophomore wide receivers Phillip Payne (knee tendinitis) and Michael Johnson (groin, hip flexor) aren't seriously injured, but are being sidelined as a precautionary move during afternoon practices when the Rebels go twice. Both practiced this morning.

Junior kicker Ben Jaekle is improving following back surgery in June. He is expected be completely healthy when the season opens Sept. 5 against Sacramento State at Sam Boyd Stadium.

PRACTICE HIGHLIGHTS

Junior quarterback Omar Clayton was especially sharp in today's practice, connecting with senior wide receivers Ryan Wolfe and Rodelin Anthony for long gains. Neither receiver broke stride for the perfectly-thrown passes. Anthony also made an impressive one-handed catch of a Clayton pass thrown over a rush.

Also, incoming freshman tailback Bradley Randle broke off a 90-yard scoring run, outrunning three players.

MEN IN BLACK

The black jersey, given to the top performer from the previous day, was awarded to Anthony on offense and senior tackle Martin Tevaseu on defense. The offensive nominees were senior guard Joe Hawley and junior tackle Matt Murphy, and junior cornerback Quinton Pointer was considered on defense.

SCHEDULE

UNLV hits the practice field at 9:45 a.m. and 5:15 p.m. Friday. The Rebels' major preseason scrimmage is Saturday morning.