WR Dillard shows good all-around game

Houston -- Thursday's practices were scaled back in preparation for the 84th East-West Shrine game on Saturday (4 p.m. ET, ESPN2). Players wore shorts, shoulder pads and helmets during the limited-contact sessions. Adding to the relaxed vibe was a noticeable decline in attendance of NFL scouts, the majority of whom left town for a brief visit at home before heading to Mobile, Ala., for next week's Senior Bowl festivities. As for the players, they have only a Friday walk-through remaining before the game itself.

Rice WR Jarett Dillard managed to stand out during the West team's afternoon practice. The 5-foot-10, 182-pounder showcased his considerable ball skills during an elongated team session. Dillard ran a slant route, plucked the ball out of the air without breaking stride and picked up a nice chunk of yardage after the catch on one play, and on another used his outstanding leaping ability -- one of his best assets -- to climb the ladder and come down with a jump ball in a back corner of the end zone for a score. He also ran a 15-yard curl, settled into a soft spot in the zone coverage and looked the ball into his hands.

In other words, Dillard showed he can do it all. So though he is undersized and probably won't test all that well during next month's combine, the ultra-productive college receiver is doing everything he can to prove to NFL scouts that his game translates to the next level.

Kevin Weidl also contributed to this report. Scouts Inc. watches games, breaks down film and studies football from all angles for ESPN.com.

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