Rodriguez pleased with effort on first day of Arizona camp

The Arizona Wildcats opened their fifth season under head coach Rich Rodriguez on Thursday evening with a two-plus hour practice.

The first half of practice was devoted to position groups, followed by an 11-on-11 session that was scored by the coaching staff as a victory for the defense over the offense.

"The defense had high energy all spring, and it continued today," Rodriguez said. "They're being aggressive. I don't know who the guys are going to be on defense yet, but we have time to figure that out. It's a new year and a fresh start for everybody."

Anu Solomon and Brandon Dawkins divided time at quarterback. Solomon connected on a long pass to senior Trey Griffey between two defenders for the offensive play of the day.