Larsen triple threat, Dykes coach of the year>

Spencer Larsen becoming part of history by starting a game at linebacker and fullback, while also taking part in special team coverages, does not surprise his former teammates.

The former Arizona leading tackler did all three facets of the game against Atlanta on Sunday while a member of the Denver Broncos.

“It is good for him,” UA coach Mike Stoops said. “I’m excited for him. It is a credit to Denver for recognizing what he does for any football team. He has done an awful lot with the tools he has been given. He plays with the right attitude. He is a great team player and has great character.”

Larsen became the first player in the NFL to start on both side of the ball since Dec. 14, 2003.
He was the first Bronco rookie to accomplish the feat.

Although he didn’t run or catch a pass, the Wildcats’ leading tackler in 2006 and 2007 did have seven stops.

Dykes coach of the year: Arizona offensive coordinator Sonny Dykes is a finalist for the footballscoop.com 2008 quarterback coach of the year.

Oklahoma State’s Gunter Brewer is winning (61 percent), followed by Oklahoma’s Josh Heupel (23 percent), Rice’s Tom Herman (10 percent) and then Dykes (6 percent).

Voting can be done by fans at footballscoop.com at the coaching awards link.

Didn’t boot sense of humor: Arizona punter Keenyn Crier didn’t shy away from questions about his 16 yard shank against the Ducks.

“It seemed more like 20. At least it was better than 2,” Crier said.

The 2007 Pac-10 leading punter had a 2-yarder in the season opener against Idaho.

Injury report: Linebacker Sterling Lewis and Kaniela Tuipulotu are closer to getting back into action, Stoops said on Monday.

Lewis, who has missed the last two games with an ankle injury, has 58 tackles.
Tuipulotu has a turf toe, but could be back against the Oregon State on Saturday.