NORMAL, Ill. – The Illinois State football team has not caught many breaks when it comes to weather conditions during camp and Thursday's workout at Hancock Stadium was no different, as a steady rain hovered over the Redbirds' 10th practice of the spring.
Practice Highlights:
• Practice began with the Bird Drill at midfield, as John Ridgeway and Drew Bones squared off in a tough battle … fellow linemen Peter Bussone and Daniel Witherspoon also pushed their way to a draw, however fullback Tim McCloyn won the day when he wasted little time winning his showdown with linebacker Jeremiah Jordan showing why he is one of the best blocking fullbacks in the MVFC
• The punt coverage drill was the special teams focus of the day, with particular attention being paid to the coffin kick, as JT Bohlken and Sam Fenlason took turns trying to pin the defense near the goal line
• The first 7-on-7 period was marred by heavier rain and wind that forced the quarterbacks Brady Davis and Bryce Jefferson to throw to their check-downs several times
• The blitz period was spirited as always and was highlighted by a 35-yard touchdown run by Jeff Proctor, before Clayton Isbell capped off the session with an interception for a touchdown
• Red zone work was the focus of the second 7-on-7 period, with Davis finishing the drill 5-for-8 with a touchdown pass each to Cole Blackman and Andrew Edgar and Jefferson finding tight end Luke McCall for a wide open score … Christian Uphoff made quite the impression for the defense with a pair of interceptions off tipped passes and newly converted safety Trenton Hatfield ended the drill with a pick six of his own
• The team period was a grinder, with particular focus placed on red zone and no-huddle work
Thoughts From Coach Spack:
"The weather didn't do us any favors today, but I thought we fought through it well.