Feb. 25, 2015
With a second full-contact scrimmage on the horizon and Spring Break scheduled next week, the Commodores put in a quick-paced workout Wednesday morning.
Head Coach Derek Mason was pleased with the session, which featured fundamental instruction, playbook development, 1-on-1 and 7-on-7 drills, and two active 11-on-11 team periods.
“It was another good day. We got a lot done today,” Mason said. “This team is hungry and working hard. I think both sides of the ball are doing a really good job of trying to master the schemes, master the fundamentals, and do the little things.”
Mason also praised the team’s overall commitment and energy level. Throughout the 90-minute session, Commodore players worked with intent, hurried from one drill to the next, and practiced with excellent focus.
“We’re getting the most out of our kids with the time we have with them,” Mason said. “Coach (James) Dobson deserves a lot of credit. He created a certain tempo in the weight room that has carries on to everything this team does. It’s a mentality – when it’s time to work, it’s time to work.”
Several Commodores provided individual highlights during the team periods. Ralph Webb (R-So., RB) opened the closing 11-on-11 going 80 yards off right tackle for a score. Earlier, Rashad Canty (R-Fr., WR) and Chandler Dorrell (R-So., WR) hauled in impressive throws from Wade Freebeck (So., QB). An acrobatic interception from Torren McGaster (R-Jr., CB) and punishing tackles by Zach Cunningham (R-So., ILB) and Adam Butler (Jr., DL) were among the top defensive contributions.
Scrimmage on Friday, then Spring Break
Commodore players have one more full-contact session to impress coaches before the team takes a week off for Spring Break. The squad’s final practice before the break comes Friday. The session is expected to include the team’s second spring scrimmage.
“It’s time to get to it (this Friday). Let’s put the pedal to the metal and see exactly what we can do,” Mason said. “Afterward, this team should fully understand that we play football a certain way.”
After Friday, the Commodores will not practice again until March 9, leading to the Black & Gold Spring Game finale on Saturday, March 21.