Sunday’s practice was exceptionally passionate and competitive. Contact picked up with the addition of shoulder pads, coaches were more demanding and players were more vocal.
Just after 10:00 a.m. on a muggy Sunday morning, Jerry Kill’s Gophers took the field for a highly-intensive third fall practice at Bierman Field. Here are some insights and highlights of the day:
– Players donned shoulder pads for the first time, and officials were present as well. Naturally, contact increased dramatically compared to the previous two practices.
-One-on-one drills occurred for the first time so far, and to say it was entertaining to view would be an incredible understatement. Applause was heard when quarterback Mitch Leidner connected with freshman wide receiver Isaiah Gentry on a well-run 40-yard route. Wide receiver Desmond Gant showed off his athleticism by getting vertical and hauling in a highly-thrown ball. During the same drill, defensive back Briean Boddy-Calhoun could be seen demonstrating his leadership, advising younger defensive backs and encouraging his defensive teammates, repeatedly muttering, “we don’t stop!”
-Head Coach Jerry Kill closely monitored wide receivers and quarterbacks for fundamentals today. He could be heard shouting, “ball security!” and “tuck that ball!” to numerous receivers. Kill got on receiver Melvin Holland Jr. for running the wrong route, and later even interrupted contact drills by demanding an all-team huddle to stress intensity to his players.
-All quarterbacks saw considerable reps on Sunday, including Demry Croft, Conor Rhoda, Jacques Perra as well as Chris Streveler and Mitch Leidner. They worked on their progressions and checkdowns for an extensive amount of time.
-Defensive line coach Jeff Phelps accentuated with his players the importance of maintaining a low center of gravity through the block. A trampoline-like contraption was used as a ceiling, as defensive linemen practiced accelerating from their three-point stance for roughly ten yards under the tarp.
-Wide receiver Jeff Borchardt, who was a standout at nearby Wayzata High School and logged some playing time for the Gophers in 2014, told me he has resumed conditioning and light weightlifting following a successful surgery in June to remove a brain tumor. For now, he said his goal is to return to spring practice in 2016 in great shape. One must certainly admire his resilience and patience as he recovers from such an extraordinary condition.
In summary, Sunday’s practice was exceptionally passionate and competitive. Contact picked up with the addition of shoulder pads, coaches were more demanding and players were more vocal. Hopefully Monday’s practice, which is open to the public, will be equally entertaining.