08/23/2006 — The Boise State football team is scheduled to hold a scrimmage-like practice this afternoon. Fans and media are prohibited from attending.

The Broncos began using scout teams at practice Tuesday to prepare for the Aug. 31 season opener against Sacramento State. They will dive into preparations for that game Thursday.

The only true freshman who was not assigned to a scout team Tuesday was linebacker Derrell Acrey, who impressed coaches throughout fall camp. Still, he’s a third-teamer.

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Fans will not be allowed to attend practice the rest of the season. They were allowed during fall camp, but coach Chris Petersen closed down access Tuesday.

His predecessor, Dan Hawkins, did the same thing.

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If you read my story in today’s newspaper, you saw that junior tailback Jon Helmandollar is considered a year away from regaining his form.

Here’s what else running backs coach Jeff Choate had to say about Helmandollar, who sat out last season for undisclosed reasons.

“That kid will always have a role in this program. This year is a get-your-feet-wet-again type of year, and I think Jon knows that. He’s being patient with himself, and that’s what he needs to be. …

“One thing about that kid, he always seems to make plays. When the lights come on, he just seems to have a knack for making plays. …

“He’s a step slow. … There’s a difference between conditioning and playing football.”

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Utah names its starting quarterback. Read about the selection at: http://www.sltrib.com/sports/ci_4225023