Tyrone Willingham's media briefing today was highlighted by the news that this Saturday's practice --- which is likely to include some significant scrimmaging --- will be open to the public.

The practice will begin at 2:30 p.m.

Willingham said he is opening up the workout simply to allow the fans a chance to see the Huskies go through a practice. It is the first time a fall practice/scrimmage has been open to the public since Willingham became coach.

There was no other major news today.

Willingham said the morning practice was "a little sluggish'' but that he kind of expected it considering the team had Sunday off.

There is little new on health issues though he said PK Erik Folk was able to handle a kickoff today, his first of the season while battling back spasms. Willingham said if the season began today, however, that Jared Ballman would likely be the place kicker (the punting job is more uncertain, he s aid).

CB Byron Davenport remains sidelined with a hamstring injury.

Willingham also talked a bit about the freshmen class. He said safety Nate Williams has a chance to play this season, saying "he's headed in that direction'' and that TE Chris Izbicki could also see the field this season at some point. "He does some things very well,'' Willingham said.

Apparently further away from playing is Quinton Richardson, who was the subject of one question on the blog earlier. Richardson is playing at strong safety but Willingham said "he's probably not at that stage yet'' of getting on the field.

Willingham said it was too early to tell which of the four freshmen RBs will see the field this season though he again seemed to single out Curtis Shaw and Brandon Yakaboski.

The team hits the field for another practice at 4 p.m. There is no access after that workout but we may check in here with some quick observations.

AFTERNOON UPDATE: So I can keep this headline with the news about the open practice on top, I'll just add a few afternoon practice notes here.

DT Wilson Afoa was wearing red with an unknown injury. Willingham did not mention it during his meeting with us earlier. Also OL Sir Aaron Mason was slowed with what is apparently a hip injury. Davenport was in uniform but didn't seem at full speed and Russo is obviously still out, though he was on the field and running routes during warmups. Everyone else appeared to be good to go.