Aug. 15, 2007
NORMAL, Ill. -
The Illinois State football team concluded its final day of two-a-day practices Wednesday, hitting the turf at Hancock Stadium under the lights for a full pad session.
Head coach Denver Johnson has preferred to hold practice under the lights at the 15,000-seat stadium, believing that it has helped the team avoid the heat that has been constant throughout the fall training camp.
"I'm trying to get our team under the lights as much as we can, especially because we have so much to do during the day," said Johnson. "I think the kids kind of like being out here under the lights, and it's been hot enough out here on the turf. These guys have been through the toughest camp that I have been through at ISU heat-wise, and we have never had a stretch where it has been so hot and humid. These guys have held up pretty good, but it has definitely taken its toll on the team."
After the offense began practice moving the ball into enemy territory, the Redbirds spent time on kicking extra points and field goals. Tyler Funk continued his accuracy from the morning session, as he hit 5-of-6 attempts from 35 yards and 2-of-2 from 40 yards. Kevin Mazur hit 3-of-4 from 35 yards, while making 1-of-2 from 40 yards.
The Redbirds spent the next four periods working on kickoffs, as the team worked on both sides of the ball. Eyad Salem, Kelvin Chandler, Jason Horton and Tom Nelson all had reps as the return man, while Mazur and Bobby Kelsey handled the kicking duties.
During the 7-on-7 drill, Luke Drone connected on 2-of-4 attempts, while Preston Earl was 2-of-5, Drew Kiel hit on both attempts and Sam Donatucci went 1-for-2. Jason Horton led the receivers with three catches, including a leaping, full-extension grab over a Redbird defender. The defense was led by Tommie Westbrook and Mark Whitaker, who each recorded a pass breakup.
The `Birds ended practice with the offense spotted on its own 22 yard line. Kevett Mickle had three catches during the period, while Horton and Garin Harcar each added two receptions apiece. Rafael Rice also busted off some big gains during the drill, while Keenan Wimbley and Babtunde Soyebo each had tackles for loss.
The Redbirds will practice Thursday at 7:30 p.m.
NOTES:
• Nick Williams celebrated his 22nd birthday Wednesday.
• Mark Whitaker, Jason Tate, Geno Blow and Warren McCarty returned to practice Wednesday night.
• Tom Speer and Bert Whigham left practice with injuries.
