After two weeks of BYU’s practice, it’s become clear that Harvey Unga has positioned himself to play a major role in the offense.

The redshirt freshman running back shined during the 50-play scrimmage Saturday at LaVell Edwards Stadium.   His 27-yard touchdown run down the left side was the highlight of the scrimmage.

 Listed at 221 pounds, Unga has the best combination of size and speed of all the running backs. My prediction is by the end of the season he will be the featured running back, taking nothing away from Fui Vakapuna (who sat out the scrimmage) and Manase Tonga.

 Check out my interview with Unga that should be on our website Monday.

 Coach Bronco Mendenhall used the scrimmage to iron out the depth chart. With several starters sitting out, including linebackers Bryan Kehl and David Nixon, the reserves saw plenty of action.

 Quarterback Max Hall led the offense to three scores, including Unga’s touchdown run and two field goals by Brian Smith. First-team kicker Mitch Payne sat out the scrimmage.

Hall continues to look good at finding the running backs on short passes. His best pass was a 31-yard completion to Matt Allen, who made a diving reception.

Quarterback Branden Gaskins ran the second-team offense. He is still recovering from a finger injury suffered during the first week.

On the injury front, receiver Austin Collie sat out with a hip injury. He left the field with his hip wrapped in ice.

Linebacker Austen Jorgensen suffered what could be a serious injury to his chest or shoulder. He lay on the field for several minutes and then was taken to the sideline, where the team doctor attended to him.

Defensive lineman Judd Anderton suffered an ankle injury early in the scrimmage and didn’t return.

Mendenhall said he liked freshman G Pittman as a kick returner. Pittman joined Bryce Mahuika as the two returners.

After practice, players and coaches gathered at midfield to give a signed “Y” flag to a family that is coping with major health issues. Tight end Vic So’oto arranged for the family to meet the players, who joined together to sing the BYU fight song.