If Wednesdays practice showed a direct correlation between intensity on the football field and cold temperatures, Illinois State head coach Denver Johnson will we wishing for a chilly fall in Central Illinois this year. The Redbirds hit hard and often, in their fourth practice of the spring at Hancock Stadium.
I was really pleased with todays effort, Johnson said. We came out on a gloomy, chilly day and I was concerned about having a productive practice, but we went out and had a real solid practice.
After position drills, the Redbirds broke into the team period for some head-to-head competition. There was intensity on both sides of the ball, but the defensive line and the play of linebacker Greg Helle caught the eye of Johnson today.
Ray Robinson and Jonathan Friend really showed up today and had a good day, Johnson added. Helle also did some real nice things today as well. Overall it was such a productive practice that it is really hard to single a few individuals out. There were several guys that did some things, but the overall attitude and effort were really good.
Johnson also saw some nice things in the quarterback position.
They are all doing well, Johnson said about his quarterbacks. Well evaluate those guys after spring ball is finished, so that we can tell them exactly where their at coming out of spring and going into the fall. Until then, we are just coaching them all as hard as we can and they have all responded well.
In addition, newly appointed assistant head coach Randall McCray made his return to the practice field after missing workouts last Saturday, to witness the birth of his son. Randall Matthew McCray, who is going by Matt, was born at 3:53 p.m. on March 30. He weighed in at five pounds, 15 ounces and is 19 1/2 inches long. He and mother, Michelle, are both doing fine. This is the first child for the McCrays.
It was by far the best experience of my life, McCray said. It is the biggest high Ive ever had and I cant wait to get home and see him tonight. Words cant describe it.
The Redbirds will return to the Hancock Stadium turf on Friday, with pads, at 3:30 p.m. The practice will be open to the public.
