The Illinois State football team continued their fall camp Monday despite the threat of a thunderstorm during the afternoon session.
The Birds took to the field in full pads for the morning session and shoulder pads and helmets in the afternoon. Senior quarterback Mike Souza saw the intensity pick up as the day progressed, and not even the threat of a thunderstorm rattled the team.
I thought we were more focused and came out with more intensity in the afternoon, Souza said. Our jazz level was up and we were just real excited to get out hear and practice. We had a little rain and lightning, but it didnt hit us and it was nice to get the practice under our belt.
Illinois State head coach Denver Johnsons optimism remains high, calling the first week of fall camp his best week as a head coach since coming to ISU.
We havent had a practice yet where I thought the attitude was anything less than exceptional, Johnson said. Weve been at this for several days now and theres a lot of bumps and bruises. But theyre fighting through it well. Every time I take the field I see more good things happening.
Both sides of the ball again had good things happen during the teams afternoon scrimmage. Redshirt freshman wide receiver Alex Filin scored a touchdown on a 60-yard pass from Souza. On defense, Cedric Jackson intercepted a pass intended for LaMonte Jones. However, on the next play, Jones caught a pass from Souza on a slant route.
Its just such a joy coaching these guys, Johnson said. Its fun being around guys thats going about their business like they are.
Illinois State heads back to the field Tuesday for a 3:30 practice in full pads.
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