A spring season filled with positive attitudes and high energy will come to a close Saturday when the Illinois State football team takes to the field for its annual Red-White scrimmage.
The game, which is set to kick off at 2:30 p.m. at Hancock Stadium, is the final test for the Redbirds this spring and head coach Denver Johnson couldnt be happier with the attitude of his team heading into Saturdays contest.
Weve gotten a lot of things accomplished this spring and we want to end it on a fun note and hopefully on a positive note, Johnson said. The guys spirits have been absolutely what you want them to be and well try to end tomorrow positively and then start looking forward to the fall.
Saturdays game is one that Johnson believes can be a positive conclusion to a spring that shows a lot of promise.
The game is going to be pretty basic in what we do on both sides of the ball, Johnson said. Well come out, compete, and let the offense and the defense challenge each other and see where it goes.
Defensively, the Redbirds have showcased their ability to move to the ball quickly, especially in the front seven with veteran linebackers
Niall Campbell and
Cameron Siskowic, as well as defensive linemen Brent Hawkins,
Justin Martindale and Nate Johnson. Offensively, Johnson has been very encouraged by the play of quarterbacks
Luke Drone, Wally Cirafesi,
Kevin Brockway and Nick Gehrts.
I see a lot of great things shaping up on our defense, Johnson said. Offensively, the quarterbacks have surpassed my expectations. We need to continue to develop the young guys on our offensive line.
But the attitude and demeanor of the football team has been really encouraging, Johnson continued. And I think weve added some positive things in our coaching staff as well.
Fans attending the game are also invited to attend the spring tailgate, which starts at 1 p.m. inside Horton Field House.
