The 2004 spring campaign for the Illinois State football team has turned its focus toward longevity rather than competition at positions. Despite the rash of injuries that have hit the Redbird camp, the Birds managed to stay healthy through 24 periods of practice Thursday on the grass practice fields adjacent to Hancock Stadium.
With the Redbirds working out in shells and avoiding full contact, head coach Denver Johnson continues to stay optimistic in the development of his team.
We continue to grind away and get the young guys some more reps and looks, Johnson said. We need to continue to elevate the young guys to the threshold where they need to be at in order to really participate in full-speed scrimmages. The best thing is that we were able to get through one (practice) without getting anyone hurt.
Even though a few of the spring injuries have thinned out the depth at particular positions, one area has remained unscathed the defensive tackles. Which compared to years past, is one of the deepest areas on the team this season.
Were pleased with the defensive line as an entirety this spring, Johnson said. We do have a lot of bodies in there, but a lot of them are very young. The most experienced guy on the defensive line right now is Mike Blough. Mike started 12 games for us last year and is by far and away the most experienced guy we have over there.
Joining the veteran Blough in the middle is Ryan Thorne, who started eight games in the interior last season for ISU.
Ryan filled a big void for us last year, Johnson said. Hes certainly not the biggest guy in the world, but hes certainly someone that were not afraid to have in the game. We dont have that dominant defensive tackle, but we have the best depth at the position since Ive been here.
Some of the depth includes returnees Nick Rohrer and Anthony Kirkland.
Nick looks like hes probably in the best shape hes ever been in and Kirkland gets in there and does a good job, Johnson said.
One player that has Johnson buzzing along with the defensive coaches is redshirt freshman Jarek Thomas.
J.T. has really shown up in some scrimmages and he looks like hes going to be a real player, Johnson said. Hes just young and needs some time on the job, but he gets better every time he takes the field. Were expecting big things out of him.
The Redbirds return to practice on Friday for the second of four straight practice days. Practice is scheduled to start at 3:30 p.m.
