SDSU FOOTBALL NOTES: Lindley sharp in scrimmage

By SCOTT BAIR - Staff Writer | Saturday, August 16, 2008 9:12 PM PDT ∞

SAN DIEGO ---- Ryan Lindley took the snap from center, dropped back and surveyed the field.

San Diego State's quarterback saw receiver Mekell Wesley make a quick move and break for the end zone. He froze the defenders with a pump fake and then launched a perfectly arched ball that Wesley caught in stride for a 38-yard touchdown that didn't count for anything.

It came during Saturday's Family Day scrimmage at Qualcomm Stadium, when results matter far less than they will during the regular-season opener Aug. 30 versus Cal Poly.

The touchdown didn't matter, but the play surely did. It was a flash of brilliance from the redshirt freshman, and it wasn't the only one.

Lindley completed 11-of-13 passes during the live tackling session, with one accurate throw after another.

"We came focused on moving the chains," Lindley said. "We did it in a variety of ways, which is encouraging for us. I'm really excited with what we've done and what I know we can do. I don't think we're even halfway toward reaching our potential right now."

Lindley wasn't the only offensive player to show his skills. Atiyyah Henderson also had a few long runs generated by sharp cuts and spins reminiscent of the 2006 season ---- when he rushed 764 yards and was named the team's offensive player of the year ---- not 2007, when Henderson was role player who didn't play much.

"Atiyyah is fast right now," San Diego State coach Chuck Long said. "He's had his best summer, and it is paying off for him. He is a different kid right now. I'm really proud of him. He's come a long way."

Kickers compete

The open tryout for this season's kicking duties stands among the most intriguing position battles in fall camp.

Bryan Shields, David Brown and Lane Yoshida had a competition at the end of the scrimmage, and Shields ---- recovering from a hip flexor injury ---- produced the only perfect record. He was accurate with all five kicks, while Yoshida converted four and Brown nailed three.

Free time?

Sunday is the Aztecs' first day off since the start of fall camp 12 days ago. The team has gone through 15 practice sessions in that span, including a trio of two-a-days last week.

The free day seems like a good time to get away from the game, hit up a water park or relax at the beach, right? Not in Lindley's case.

"I'll definitely try to stay off my feet, but the day still has to be productive," he said. "I'll probably hang out, watch some film, and get ready for the next week. There's no such thing as an off day for us. Not this close to the season."

Captains announced

Six seniors have been named captains for this season: linebacker Russell Allen, safety Corey Boudreaux, running back Tyler Campbell, defensive lineman Siaosi Fifita, offensive guard Mike Schmidt and wide receiver Darren Mougey.

Injury free

San Diego State came out of the scrimmage without serious injury.

The prognosis for left tackle Mike Matamua, who injured his foot in Friday's practice, is still unknown. He'll have an MRI soon to determine the extent of damage.

Peter Nelson, who has battled Matamua for the starting spot, took most of the snaps with the first team.