Report from SC State sports information…
South Carolina State returned to the practice field Monday for the first time following its initial scrimmage Saturday and after taking the day off Sunday. The Bulldogs held a morning session lasting a little over two hours and conducted about an hour and a half evening workout.
In the morning practice, in which Coach Buddy Pough’s team wore full gear, the Bulldogs concentrated their efforts on a lot of individual-style drills, and cross over drills with the running backs against the linebackers, the receivers against the defensive backs and the offensive line against the defensive line.
Pough said his team got a lot done in the session, however, he noted that it took a big push from the coaching staff. “We didn’t have the enthusiasm and execution we usually have,” Pough said. “But anytime you have a layoff, you experience a little bit of a lag in your execution and your execution.
“But, after a while,” he continued, “We got going and got a lot done after the coaches pushed the players. We got in a lot of reps which was good because this is our last of two-a-days because classes start tomorrow (Tuesday).”
SC State also gave some attention to its kicking game — field goals, PATs and punting. Pough said that sophomore place-kicker Blake Erickson was continuing to do well with his field goals and PATs, and that Leigh Manley had improved in the punting department, where he is being pushed by Erickson, who also punts. He added that a tight battle was being waged between David Davis and Nathan Smith for the deep snapping duties.
In the evening practice, conducted in shorts and helmets only, the Bulldogs concentrated on team-style drills.
The Bulldogs will take Tuesday off due to the start of classes and return to drills Wednesday at 3:30 p.m., which will be the regular time for practices during the season.
