UNLV football kicked off week two of spring ball on a warm spring day at Rebel Park. The heat didn't phase the Rebels, especially a receiving corps that finds itself full of dynamic playmakers eager to make their mark on head coach Marcus Arroyo's offense.

This group, led by returners Steve Jenkins, Zyell Griffin and Kyle Williams - the latter just a year and a half removed from being named the Mountain West Freshman of the Year - added a trio of new, but experienced transfers in Ricky White (Michigan State), Jeff Weimer (City College of San Francisco) and Senika McKie (Erskine College), setting up the potential for one of the most exciting position groups in the conference.

The incoming competition has only elevated the crew as a whole. Arroyo is pleased with the growth the returners have made and is looking forward to what the newcomers add to the room.

"Having a chance to be with Coach (Jonathan) Krause another year and another year under Steve's and Kyle's belt, then adding some older guys like Jeff and Senika and now Ricky to the mix, the group has gelled really well and the ante has been raised," said Arroyo. "We've added some depth and some talent and I think that's what you want. Iron sharpens iron."

That new mix will also allow the Rebels to push the ball deep down the field, putting pressure on opposing defenses with more explosive plays.

"You can see that (they are capable of that), running around out there and pushing that vertical passing game. So far so good."

Both Williams and White had a chance to speak with the media after Tuesday's session and echoed Arroyo's sentiments about the depth in the room and the emphasis on the deep ball.

"I feel like we have a lot more weapons to be used and the ball can be spread around well," said Williams. "We've been working on our technique and our craft. Everybody has different roles and abilities, so I think it's going to be a good group and we can do well in the fall."

Williams added with a grin, "Deep threats all day, so it's going to be exciting."



White, who came to UNLV after two years at Michigan State, has enjoyed his time in Las Vegas and UNLV so far, especially since reuniting with his former high school quarterback and fellow transfer Harrison Bailey.

"I've been getting to know the coaches and feel like it was definitely the right fit for me coming here. It's a great city," said White. "He (Harrison) recruited me to come here, so it's great to link up with him again and try to help this team win."

White adds Power 5 speed and envisions big things for the offense.

"I think we can be explosive - we'll take those deep shots and get our playmakers the ball."

The Rebels return to the field on Thursday morning.