NFL Nation

          Dan Campbell's latest wrinkle: Alternate black practice jerseys

          DAVIE, Fla. -- Miami Dolphins interim head coach Dan Campbell is full of new ideas. His latest wrinkle to promote more intensity and competition in practice was revealed Thursday when players on offense wore alternate, black practice jerseys.

          Campbell wants his offense and defense to push each other during the week as much as possible. He even said he wants the practice week to be "uncomfortable" at times to make the games easier.

          The different color jerseys give the feel of two different teams competing with the goal of joining forces on Sunday.

          Campbell continues to spice things up to challenge his players. In his short time at the helm, players also have done the "Oklahoma drill" and tug-O-war in practices.

          Here are some other notes from Thursday's sessions:

          • There was some bad news and good news for the secondary. Starting cornerback Brice McCain (knee) did not participate for the second straight practice in the portion open to the media. His status for Sunday looks uncertain. Backup cornerback Zack Bowman returned Thursday after missing Wednesday’s practice for personal reasons.

          • Offensive coordinator Bill Lazor said confidence in his group grew after finally getting off to a fast start last week against the Titans. The Dolphins scored 10 points on their first two drives, which led to a season-high 38 points scored. They were outscored 37-3 in the first quarters of the first four games.

          • Dolphins rookie running back Jay Ajayi said he felt healthy in his return to practice. Ajayi was placed on the physically unable to perform list with a rib injury at the start of the regular season. He is now eligible to practice, but can’t play until Week 9.