MOSCOW, Idaho – After three years in coach Paul Petrino's program, the University of Idaho football team is showing the work ethic and has developed the passion of its head coach.

In Saturday's scrimmage at the Kibbie Dome, Petrino wants to see the Vandals transfer those elements into a practice that is as flawless as possible.

“We've been playing hard; working hard,” said Petrino, who begins his fourth season as head coach. “We've heard a lot of big hits and guys have been breaking tackles.

“It would be great to see no assignment errors and play the game the way it's supposed to be played.”

The scrimmage begins at 10 a.m. and is the Vandals' second with sophomore Jake Luton handling the majority of the quarterbacking duties after two-year starter Matt Linehan was forced out of spring ball with a foot injury. Petrino said the extra work has been good for Luton.

“He's gotten all kinds of reps; he's really improved,” Petrino said.

Petrino said he also has seen tremendous progress among the receivers – with dual threat Deon Watson (tight end/receiver) drawing praise not only for his effort on the field but for his efforts off.

“Our older kids, who have been in the program, are doing a good job of leading,” he said. “They're leading by example. They've been working hard; working hard and playing with passion – playing the game the way it's supposed to be played.”

Petrino also cited seniors Jayshawn Jordon, who missed 2015 with injury but is back in the secondary, and defensive lineman Tueni Lupeamanu as examples of work ethic and playing with passion. Praise also went to a veteran offensive line and the mix at running back that includes junior Aaron Duckworth, sophomore Isaiah Saunders and redshirt freshman Denzal Brantley.

The Vandals also scrimmage next Friday at 4 p.m. before wrapping up spring ball with the annual Silver and Gold game April 22 at 7 p.m. They open the 2016 campaign at home Sept. 1 against Montana State University.