Demetrus Johnson, a junior transfer from Minnesota, dominated the 75-play Illinois State intrasquad scrimmage Sunday at Hancock Stadium, with two, 60-plus yard runs for touchdowns.
It wasnt only Johnson showing the Birds new moves. Joe Walkins, a junior wide receiver who transferred from Auburn, caught a 74-yard pass from Steve Kolodziej for a touchdown. Head coach Denver Johnson was impressed with the play of his new additions.
Demetrus had a terrific day, Johnson said. Joe showed up also, catching the long pass for the touchdown, and both of those guys are really showing up day in and day out. We are really counting on those guys to make some of the big plays like they did today.
Although touchdowns by Johnson and Walkins were highlights of the offense, Johnson was more impressed with his defense.
Those guys really came out here, looking forward to the scrimmage with great enthusiasm, Johnson said. They had a couple of big hits and plays were made. They played a lot better than I anticipated they would.
Offensively, I was a little disappointed with the mental and technical mistakes, Johnson added. We didnt execute the ball the way we should have. We had too many procedure penalties and turnovers. But we got plays and good situation on film and that will be great to teach off of.
Johnsons goal heading into the scrimmage was to put newer guys in live situations while also getting it on film to evaluate.
We came out with a script of 15 plays of first and 10 and 15 plays of third and six, Johnson said. After that, we let it go and got people opportunities to play and show their skills and they did that.
Sesamir Yearby pulled down a 32-yard interception and ran it back for a touchdown while Johnson finished the day with 133 yards on seven carries. Sha-ron Edwards had 40 yards on five carries and Souza rushed for 49 yards and was 11-for 21 for 98 yards.
The Redbirds will return to spring practice on Thursday, April 17, at 3:30 p.m. at Hancock Stadium.
