Aug. 7, 2015
On campus in Nashville – Head Coach Derek Mason got the energy he demanded from his squad Friday during the team’s second preseason practice. He also wasn’t about to be denied.
Mason’s voice boomed through loudspeakers virtually the entire 90-minute session, which was held at the team’s John Rich Practice Facility. Commodore players responded positively to Mason’s urging for greater tempo, pushing through the fast-paced practice that focused on scheme development, 7-on-7 passing and 11-on-11 team drills and individual instruction.
“I saw some guys really pushing today. I thought the tempo was good,” Mason said. “We started fast and ended that way. It was another good day for our team. I thought we got some things done.”
Highlight plays during the practice
On offense, wide receivers Trent Sherfield, Latevius Rayford and Chandler Dorrell provided superb receptions during passing and team sessions. Sherfield’s second consecutive solid practice was highlighted by a deep touchdown catch. Rayford had several impressive catches, including keeping his feet in bounds while diving toward the sideline. Dorrell’s catch was an off-balance grab on the sideline.
On defense, veteran defensive linemen Caleb Azubike, Adam Butler and Jay Woods continued to make their presence known on the line of scrimmage. Safeties Oren Burks and Andrew Williamson also registered interceptions in 11-on-11 segments.
Solid special teams for the second straight session
Colby Cooke’s directional punting at the conclusion of practice Friday was so effective that neither the offense nor defense were required to perform a mandatory set of 30 pushups. That task fell on pleased special teams mentor Charles Bankins.
One day earlier, placekickers Tommy Openshaw and Hayden Lekacz connected on 9-of-10 field goals, with Openshaw making all five of his attempts. Two of Openshaw’s conversions came beyond 40 yards.
Saturday, Sunday practices are open to public
Prior to practice, Mason announced both of the team’s weekend practices will be open to Commodore fans. The squad is scheduled to hold sessions Saturday and Sunday starting at 3:30 p.m., at the Rich Practice Facility. Fans are urged to enter the facility through the gates off Natchez Trace. Free parking is available to fans in the surface lots across Natchez Trace from the practice facility.