Troy University Athletics
Practice Report #13: August 22
8/22/2006 12:00:00 AM | Football
TROY, Ala. - The Troy Trojans football team wore full pads when they returned to the practice field on Tuesday afternoon. It was the Trojans first practice in full pads after a light session on Monday evening.
The Trojans are preparing this week as if the opening game was this Saturday.
"It was normal full gear work," head coach Larry Blakeney said. "We're doing a lot of game planning, and a lot of work on schemes."
The Trojans once again did extensive scout team work in preparation for Alabama State.
"This week is not quite as exciting as next week will be," Blakeney said. "We're going to play a mock game on Saturday, and try to expose the players to some different game situations."
The Trojans will hit the field once again on Wednesday afternoon at 2:45 p.m.
Veteran Wide Receivers Step to the Front: Wide receivers are an integral part of offensive coordinator Tony Franklin's new scheme and, while Troy has not been known in the past for its passing game, the coaching staff believes they have the personnel to make an impact.
"Our receivers are getting coached by two guys," Blakeney said. "Both are hard nosed football coaches that refuse to take less than the best."
Blakeney was referring to incumbent outside receivers coach Shayne Wasden and newcomer Neal Brown, who is coaching the inside receivers. Both coaches think they have impact players at their position.
"We're expecting Gary Banks and Smokey Hampton to make big plays," Wasden said.
Brown spoke similarly of senior Toris Rutledge.
"Toris hasn't had huge production so far in his career, but he's had a good spring and fall and we're expecting big things," Brown said.
Another senior, Marlo East, is expected to contribute as a senior. East moved from running back to wide receiver to fit the new offense. There are also several younger players who are expected to make an impact.
"Fred Turner is capable of making the big play," Wasden said, "and Zack Marcum has played in this system before, so we expect something from him."
Brown lists four younger players as receivers he believes will make an impact this year.
"Cornelius Williams knows the offense, having played in it four years," Brown said.
Patrick Cherry, Chris Lucas and Gerald Tate are also expected to contribute.
Overall, Blakeney believes a great deal hinges on his receivers' success.
"The receivers have got to be good, they must execute," Blakeney said.
Fan Day This Sunday: Come join the Trojans as they give back to the fans at 2 p.m. this Sunday at Trojan Arena. Come meet all of your favorite Trojans from football, women's soccer and volleyball. The Troy University cheerleaders will also be in attendance. FREE ice cream will be given away. Admission is free, so come enjoy the festivities.
Season Tickets Still on Sale: Season tickets for the 2006 season remain on sale, starting at just $50 for general admission sections. Individual game ticket at also available as low as $15. For additional information, contact the ticket office at 800-878-9467 (670-3681 locally) or visit TroyTrojans.com Also ask about our family plans.
Away Game Tickets Still Available: There are only a few days left to buy tickets for Troy's visit to Doak Campbell Stadium for their match-up with Florida State. To order tickets for the Troy-FSU game, or any of the Trojans away contests, contact the ticket office at 800-878-9467 (670-3681 locally) or visit TroyTrojans.com
Upcoming Practice Schedule:
August 22: 2:45 p.m.
August 23: 2:45 p.m.
August 24: 2:45 p.m.
August 25: Mock Game, 2:00 p.m.
August 26: Fan Day, 2:00 p.m.
August 27: 6:00 p.m.
