Aug. 7, 2007
NORMAL, Ill. -
The Illinois State football team went through a pair of grueling practices on Tuesday, and according to head coach Denver Johnson the Redbirds bounced back in the nightcap.
"The guys responded really well," Johnson said. "This morning it got hot, and we had a very demanding and physical practice. I was concerned when we came back out this evening, and it was still quite hot on this turf. I thought they got it going pretty good and we had a lively team period. I was really pleased with the way they did respond and fought through what proved to be a tough double-practice day."
The Redbirds worked out in shells for 24, five-minute periods on a practice which centered on the passing game.
During the 7-on-7 drill, Luke Drone completed 7-of-9 passes, while Kevin Brockway was 4-for-9. Preston Earl finished 5-for-7, Drew Kiel was 3-for-3 and Sam Donatucci was 1-for-1. Kelvin Chandler led all the receivers with three catches.
The team period was almost split between rushing and passing plays. Despite the depth at receiver, the options were limited with five wideouts sidelined with various nagging injuries.
"They are not serious injuries, but we have way too many guys out right now," Johnson said in regards to the number of Redbirds sidelined. "We've got to get these guys back out on the field."
The Redbirds will return for a single practice on Wednesday. ISU will practice on the grass field in full pads at 2:30 p.m.
NOTES
Sophomore wide receiver Warren McCarty pulled out with a stomach virus.
Senior Jason Horton dropped out of practice with a hamstring injury.
At the completion of practice, the Redbirds showed their appreciation to coaches Larry Coker and Tim Reynolds with a pair of attaway cheers.
Janice from Chicago wanted to ask Isaiah Wiggins: "What are your goals after the season?"
Isaiah said: "I have no idea right now. I'm probably going to try to train for an NFL career. I would like to pursue a career in professional football, but if that doesn't work out I will come back and finish my degree."
Have a question for a specific student-athlete? One fan question will be selected daily and featured in the Fan's Want To Know section of the daily Redbird practice reports on GoRedbirds.com.
Click here to ask a student-athlete a
Question?
