Aug. 16, 2011
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NASHVILLE – The Commodores concluded another fast-paced session Tuesday just as you’d expect – focusing their attention of better results in the closing minutes of games.
Head Coach James Franklin capped another spirited, up-tempo practice with a brief period of two-minute drills. Each unit left the John Rich Practice Facility with positives from the drill.
Quarterback Larry Smith led the offense on a 40-yard drive that culminated on Carey Spear’s 42-yard field goal. Smith hit tight end Brandon Barden, and wideouts Udom Umoh, Jordan Matthews and Jonathan Krause on consecutive passes during the drive.
The defense stiffened after Jordan Rodgers hit Micah Powell for a first-down reception to open a later drive. A deflected pass by cornerback Andre Hal and quarterback sack by linebacker Archibald Barnes forced a punting situation.
The Commodores practiced in limited gear Tuesday, though the intensity and physicality was high during much of the session.
Individual highlights
– Krause had several impressive catches, including a pair of receptions in traffic during an early 11-on-11 segment.
– Defensive end Johnell Thomas opened one 11-on-11 period with a tackle for loss, then deflected a pass in the two-minute drill segment.
– Safety Kenny Ladler made one of his top plays of preseason drills, diving to pick off a deep pass over the middle.
– Running back Zac Stacy continues to impress, reading blocks and quickly hitting holes in the defense. Freshman back Mitchell Hester also looked impressive while getting extra repetitions.
104.5 The Zone Morning Crew to broadcast from practice Wednesday
Listeners to the 104.5 Wake Up Zone Show on Wednesday can hear the sounds of practice from Vanderbilt when the program broadcasts its four-hour show from the patio overlooking the complex.
Co-hosts Kevin Ingram, who doubles as the Commodores’ sideline reporter, Mark Howard and Frank Wycheck will interview Franklin and other Vanderbilt representatives during the program.
The final hour of the popular Nashville radio show will air as the squad conducts the first of two Wednesday practices.