Spring practice: No. 4

Once again, the Warriors had to race the clock during their fourth practice of spring training. Because several players have 9 a.m. classes, the Warriors have been on the field shortly before 6:30. The trouble is it’s still dark. The exterior lights from Johnson Hall helped. But the Warriors did not mind the dimness. Wideout Devan Stubblefield actually did his best Daredevil training, catching footballs fired out of the JUGS machine. At 8:20 a.m., Nick Rolovich told the players with 9 o’clock classes to head to the locker room. The rest stayed for the final sessions of practice.

Of note:

> Safety Keala Santiago is a pigskin magnet. For the third practice in a row, he caught a pass seemingly fired right at him.

> Linebacker Ikem Okeke made a nice pick-six sprint. He has a knack for making plays.

> Linebacker Dany Mulanga was impressive today. He has the range of a safety — a position he still might play — as well as the improved strength to defend the perimeter.

> There is an interesting battle brewing for the complementary back position. Diocemy Saint Juste, of course, has solidified one spot. But Freddie Holly, Ryan Tuiasoa, Elijah Dale and Genta Ito have done some nice work. It appears Tuiasoa has dropped weight, and he’s showing a burst he didn’t display a year ago.

> Two newcomers — wideout Marcus Armstrong-Brown and safety Jay Dominique — have earned significant reps. Dominique, who was recruited as a cornerback, has adjusted to safety.

> Make no mistake, this is clearly Legi Suiaunoa’s defense. He commands the defensive drills, directing each position with sternness and humor. Suiaunoa has the point guard’s dual vision of looking at a defensive end while noting a linebacker’s misalignment on the other side.