Chippewas turn loose the defense
Chris McCarty
Coach Mike DeBord gave the players more freedom on intensity levels as he allowed the players to tackle for the first time since the 2001 season ended.
“Today was the first day that we could go with tackling. Before, it was thuds, but today we let them loose a little,” DeBord said.
DeBord described “thuds” as wrapping the ball carrier up and getting in position to tackle him.
“We’ve got to become a better tackling team. We had some missed tackles out there today and we have to eliminate them,” DeBord said.
As for who will be at the helm quarterbacking the offense, DeBord said decisions won’t be made until much closer to the opener.
“Nobody and everybody (is ahead). We’re really trying to get a look at what these guys can do. We told them that whoever gives us the best chance to win will be the guy who we are going to work with,” he said.
Senior Derek Gorney and junior Derrick Vickers saw significant action last season but will be pushed this season by a trio of potential starters. They include junior Darren Tooley, sophomore Grant Arnoldink and redshirt freshman Kent Smith.
The NCAA allows teams to hold 15 practices before breaking for summer. Twelve of these practices can be in full pads. The returning players will report for preseason camp on Aug. 6.
Junior Dante McKnight, who caught 13 passes for 135 yards and a TD as a receiver last season, has been moved to cornerback this spring.
“He has done a few nice things back there for us. We have some young guys (in the secondary), but they are getting better daily,” DeBord said.
DeBord also mentioned the positive progress of redshirt freshman offensive tackle Jeff Jenerou.
On the offensive side of the ball, DeBord said he is looking for better overall execution on throws and runs before spring sessions conclude.
“If we can get those things accomplished, I’m going to be a very, very happy man,” he said.
Central is looking to improve on its 3-8 2001 season. It will open up the 2002 season by hosting Sam Houston State on Aug. 29.
