The open practice that started this morning at 9:30 has concluded and while I didn’t start a thread earlier here are some of my immediate take aways.
– I’ve already touched on how the team seemed to be in great shape and with the tempos of practice it’s not hard to see why. Between working with Coach Moorer and the coaches constantly keeping their foot on the throttle this team will be in tip top shape when Notre Dame comes to town.
– There is no down time for the players during practice outside of a water break at the half way point. Every minute is being maximized.
– Buechele and Swoopes were both taking reps with the first team today. Both had solid days from what I saw, but if I’m leaning one way after today it will be with Shane.
– Even though he is a freshmen, Buechele always seems in control and is getting the ball out. Just seems to process things quicker than the other guys. With the amount of reps going around, he is only going to get better with time.
– The offensive line is noticeably bigger than those in years past. First unit from left to right: Williams- Vahe- Shackleford- Perkins- Nickelson
– Patrick Hudson is massive and he worked at right tackle, while Buck Major was working at guard.
– The young wide receivers made some nice plays and catches today. I’m optimistic about the future of the position with the talent there.
– Burt caught a deep touchdown pass on Davante Davis early on. I’m excited about him for sure this year.
– Collin Johnson made some nice catches today. Devin Duvernay is going to be a problem out of the slot. If you group Dev, Collin and Burt together they are going to give defenses fits.
– We had a Kai Locksley sighting today. He actually got reps in 7 on 7 work and hooked up with LJ Humphrey who made a very nice catch.
– Anthony Wheeler deflected a pass during 7 on 7 that was intercepted by Holton Hill who made a diving catch.
– Kris Boyd looked solid in coverage and went step for step with Johnson on a deep ball and broke it up.
-Jeffrey McCulloch picked off Jerrod Heard during 7 on 7. Davis also had a pick in the EZ of Buechele.
Real football is almost here guys. Can’t wait!
