Sometimes, when we write that no Observer reporters were at that week's Wednesday practice (which is open to the media as an "off the record conversation"), we're lying for comic effect.
On Wednesday, there were no Observer reporters at practice.
After that practice, a couple Observer sportswriters did show up to hear Irish coach Brian Kelly speak of developments from the day.
First, senior tight end Mike Ragone was not at practice either on Wednesday, as he is in the infirmary with an inner ear infection.
"The report was vertigo, inner ear infection," Kelly said. "We were really concerned because he's been doing so well."
Kelly agreed that Ragone, who was sidelined during fall camp with a heat illness, "can't catch a break."
Next, Kelly spoke about senior tight end Kyle Rudolph, who is recovering from a hamstring injury and is working to catch up on the new offensive schemes after not being able to participate in much of Spring practice.
"Physically, he's 100 percent," Kelly said. "Mentally he's got some work to do."
Senior nose tackle Ian Williams was a little sluggish during practice, Kelly confirmed, but fans shouldn't worry.
"He's fine," Kelly said. "He had his 21st birthday yesterday, so I think he's feeling a little bit older."
