Eagles begin classes, keep intensity at practice
August 18, 2008
As the Faulkner football team started focusing on classes, which began Monday on campus, head coach Jim Nichols was excited to see that his team’s pace on the field had not changed.
"Our pace was upbeat today and the tempo was really good both on offense and defense," commented Nichols shortly after practice concluded Monday evening at Cramton Bowl.
"We were really moving the ball well and making some good plays,'' Nichols added. "We are going to go to the scout team probably on Wednesday of this week, so I am glad to see that we are still moving forward and making progress. That’s a good sign."
The Eagles have been plagued with injuries thus far in preseason practice. The injuries which have occurred mainly with the offensive line and receiving corps has hindered some players but has helped others, according to Nichols.
"We would like to see some of our injured guys get some reps to see where they fit in," Nichols said, "but at the same time, the injuries are giving some of our freshmen an opportunity to compete for a role on the team."
With the first game less than three weeks away, Nichols still has some concerns though.
"We need to be more physical on offense and defense,'' he said. "We are bigger up front this year than we have been, but we have to focus on being more physical off the ball."
The Eagles begin the 2008 season at Samford in Birmingham on Sept. 6 at 6 p.m. The home opener is the following week at Cramton Bowl when the Eagles host crosstown rival Huntingdon at 7 p.m.