Crossword Genius

Beat up Miles in a scrimmage (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

impulse

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'a scrimmage' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both acts as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'beat up miles' is the wordplay.
'beat' is an anagram indicator.
'up'+'miles'='upmiles'
'upmiles' anagrammed gives 'IMPULSE'.

'in' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for impulse that I've seen before include "Sudden urge to do something" , "Whim; thrust" , "Impetus - whim" , "A sudden inclination to act (7)" , "Sudden or instinctive desire" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
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