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Veteran Leadership Apparent During Second Commodore Preseason Practice 8/13/2004
Veteran Leadership Apparent During Second Commodore Preseason Practice On Campus in Nashville — Commodore running backs coach Kenny Carter had an assistant providing extra aid during the team’s second preseason practice Thursday. The helper was Vanderbilt senior tailback Norval McKenzie. Exhibiting a pattern that was apparent across the John Rich Practice Facility, McKenzie would complete each drill required by Coach Carter, then turn his attention to a pair of talented and inquisitive prospects, Cassen Jackson-Garrison and Jeff Jennings. Through the 30-minute position drills, McKenzie offered both advice and a pat on the helmet to each freshmen. McKenzie’s prodding and praise was not an exception during the 2-hour, 30-minute session. Among the defensive linemen, Jovan Haye and Robert Dinwiddie were the first in line, and continuously encouraging a corps of talented freshmen. In throwing drills, quarterback Jay Cutler gave tips on various reads to newcomer Chris Nickson. Veteran linebackers Herdley Harrison, Otis Washington and Moses Osemwegie were frequently giving pointers to younger players such as redshirt freshmen Curtis Gatewood and Jonathan Goff. Senior offensive captains Chris Young and Justin Geisinger were providing similar support to receivers and offensive linemen, respectively. Head Coach Bobby Johnson liked the practice atmosphere. “As a coach, you want to see that happening out here. We want every player doing things exactly like their coach wants it done. When your veterans are reinforcing that message, it’s extremely helpful. A lot of guys are providing leadership on this team,” he said. With the Commodores two days away from full pads, Johnson and his staff used much of the practice to expand the offensive and defensive systems. The squad spent more than an hour of the fast-paced session working on team teaching, including a brief 11-on-11 segment. The rest of the practice was dedicated to individual and position drills. Several groups worked an extra session after Johnson gathered the squad together to close the practice. As the quarterbacks and receivers worked on routes and timing, the defensive linemen enthusiastically completed a drill aimed at improving pursuits to the football. Upcoming Schedule The final practice open to the public is scheduled for Friday, starting at 6:15 p.m. The Commodores also practice Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning before joining other Vanderbilt student-athletes for Dore Jam III, the program’s free fan day scheduled Sunday from 4-6 p.m. An array of free activities and events for kids, as well as autographs from coaches and players are featured at the event. |
