Behrens making move inside

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Phoenix (Ariz.) Brophy Prep offensive lineman Blake Behrens knows he's going to have to move to the inside in college. So he's using every opportunity he can at the Offense-Defense All-American Bowl to work on his all-around game at guard and center.

It's work that's paid off as Behrens has impressed in the first two days of practices – especially on Monday when he did extremely well in the one-on-one battles.

"I thought the practices were good," said Behrens, who looks physically like he's gotten even stronger and added more good weight to his 6-foot-4, 280-pound frame. "We have to get back in the grove and have to get all that rust off from after the season. This is great for all of us going to college, playing against guys that are the same level of athleticism and competition.

"I thought I could have done better in the one-on-ones. I probably gave the quarterback enough time, which his the most important thing. I'm also learning a lot."

He's learning a lot, especially when it comes to new pass protection techniques.

"The offense is almost the same as what we run," he said. "I just have to learn the new calls. The pass pro is really creative. The tackles are pretty straight up. The tackles are the best athletes, so you have to pretty much do that with speed rushers.

"Between the guard and the center, depending on a one or a three technique, the guard picks up the one technique and center drops back, or you pick up the three technique and the center drops back. It's different. I've never really been coached that way. I can see how it can give you an edge."

Behrens said he's been impressed with his West offensive line teammates.

"The left guard Rishaw Johnson seemed really big and athletic," Behrens said. "He seems real nasty. All the guys are good. Both tackles (Darrion Weems and Jarvis Jones) are really tall. I have to see why I have to move inside in college. They're all good and that's been fun."

Behrens is still excited about his decision to play at Colorado.

"I'm pumped up about my choice," he said. "Despite the season, I still have the faith. I think it was just their rebuilding year. They have a great class. I heard it was second or third in the Big 12 behind teams like Texas. I think they're getting the right guys they need up there.

"I practiced with some of the guys at the camp, and I really liked what I saw. I worked with Ryan Miller and Shawn Daniels. I think they have a good athletic group. I think they're setting up something great. I love how Dan Hawkins coaches. I think he'll be making news."