De’Vondre Campbell will be one of the leaders on a very talented defensive squad.
The Minnesota Gophers kicked off their first practice of fall camp Friday morning, just moments after the startling news broke regarding the resignation of Gophers Athletic Director Norwood Teague. Despite the controversy surrounding the Bierman Field Athletic Building, players and coaches seemed focused and upbeat throughout the two-hour practice. Here are some highlights from day one:
-Linebackers coach Mike Sherels was very vocal and positive with his group, using an energetic approach to stress correct form and technique with Jack Lynn, Jonathan Celestin and De’Vondre Campbell, who seemed to be in outstanding shape.
-Redshirt freshman Isaiah Gentry stood out with his impressive speed and acceleration throughout multiple drills, even against his defensive counterparts. He seems to maneuver well, using his 6’4”, 206 lb. frame to his advantage.
-Head Coach Jerry Kill and Graduate Assistant Adam Weber spent a considerable amount of time instructing freshmen wide receivers Hunter Register, Louis Tuszynski, Adam Mayer and Matt Morse as they ran routes for incoming freshman quarterback Demry Croft.
-Senior defensive back Briean Boddy-Calhoun gained quite the ovation from his defensive teammates when he picked off a dart thrown by quarterback Mitch Leidner. Later in practice, redshirt junior linebacker Jack Lynn drew similar applause when he read and intercepted a mid-range route.
Despite the troubling news concerning Norwood Teague, Gopher players and coaches were an animated bunch on Friday, merely excited to finally start fall practice. Expect the enthusiastic approach to continue in practices this weekend.