Irish suit up for first padded practice in Culver

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CULVER, Ind. -- On the first day the Notre Dame Football Team practiced in pads, some changes in the way the media is allowed to cover fall camp were put into place.

Keeping on trend with other national college football programs, Notre Dame is tightening up on access and how the media is allowed to report on training camp.

When the team runs tempo and 11-on-11, the media is no longer allowed to shoot wide angle video showing formations, report personnel groups and non-conventional plays.

But we are permitted to film close up on individual players. We caught quarterback Brandon Wimbush connecting with Chris Finke on the first snap of practice.

“It's five days in and I think we're on pace to have a prolific offense,” said Brandon Wimbush, Notre Dame junior quarterback.

There were plenty of teaching moments as well as Brian Kelly took time out to go one-on-one, looking at play action and how to sell it.

“The relationship with Coach Kelly has been really good throughout this camp and throughout the spring,” said Wimbush.

After practice, Coach Kelly and players shared their impressions of the first day in pads.

“We will not be rewarding talent. I did that last year and that was a mistake,” said Kelly.

"I've been catching for him since we were in high school, you know, at camp so we're good friends and we have good chemistry so that's going to continue to grow," added Equanimeous St Brown, ND junior wide receiver.

The team will have a break Sunday with an off day from camp. The players will remain in Culver but have some freedom to sleep in, take advantage of the lake or even golf. Meanwhile, Brian Kelly and some staff will be attending the services for legendary Notre Dame coach Ara Parseghian.

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