At precisely 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, a team manager rang an air horn inside Nippert Stadium. The first official University of Cincinnati preseason football practice was about to begin under new coach Luke Fickell, and 103 players snapped to attention near midfield.
When a new coach arrives, sideline observers tend to perceive a brisker practice pace than in the previous regime. In UC's case, a common belief is that things became a bit looser during last year's 4-8 season under then-coach Tommy Tuberville. Bearcats players themselves said things definitely have changed.
"Things are moving way smoother. We're moving like a well-oiled machine now, " UC senior offensive tackle Korey "Big Country" Cunningham said, shortly after practice ended.