The Illinois State football team cleared another hurdle in the push towards their season opener August 28 against Drake, completing the first day of doubles Thursday.
The Redbirds kicked off the morning session at 8:30 in the morning, dressed in full pads. Head coach Denver Johnson liked what he saw early on.
I thought we were a little drowsy yesterday, but I thought we bounced back this morning and had a better practice, Johnson said. We got some guys back today that were nicked up yesterday, so that helped. Generally I was pleased.
In the morning session, running back Tristan Davis let his senior leadership show on the field, breaking through the line and scoring a touchdown. Overall Johnson likes what he sees in his veteran back.
Tristan had a really good practice this morning, Johnson said. Hes looked better this week in camp than at any other time since Ive been here. Im really impressed with the way hes come back. Hes obviously determined to have a great season for us.
Illinois State practiced again in the afternoon dressed in shoulder pads and helmets. The Redbird freshmen concluded practice with their own rendition of the school fight song. Because of their effort, the entire team got out of conditioning.
Thats something that we take a lot of pride in around here, Johnson said of the fight song. Its something thats very meaningful to us. Those guys have really embraced it and they sing it pretty well.
Johnson said the defensive unit is still familiarizing themselves with each other because of all the new faces.
Weve got so many new guys in there right now, Johnson said. Trying to get all those guys synchronized is a little bit like separating wildcats. With every practice though, I see it begin to take a new form.
The Birds return to the field Friday afternoon for a 3:30 practice.
Notes
Senior wide receiver LaMonte Jones sprained his ankle in the morning practice and did not partake in the afternoon session.
Cornerback Cerone Colvin continues to nurse himself back from an ACL injury, while still taking part in practice.
--ISU--
