Looking in on Day Three of Full Pads

Hi again everybody! Well the morning rains gave way to some intermittent sunshine this morning at Robert C. Dix Stadium allowing the Golden Flashes to pop some pads on day seven of training camp.

I have been attending training camp practice sessions every year since 2007 and I can't ever remember such intense energy and competition this early in the season. From the players to the coaches, it was a terrific high-energy morning session. I think Flashes fans are in for another entertaining football season.

One person I paid particular attention to was new defensive coordinator Brian George. Coach George worked with the defensive line a year ago and was a natural candidate for the promotion once Paul Haynes was hired. If this practice was any indication, Flashes fans are going to love Coach George in his new position. He was all over the field, working just as hard with a starter as a third string guy and his attention to detail is going to keep the KSU defense operating at the high level it has enjoyed for years.

Another young man I was delighted to see was Tyshon Goode. Old number five had a tremendous 2011 campaign and was key to Kent State's late-season surge. He missed 2012 due to injury but has been practicing all week and on this day made a fine over-the-shoulder grab. It was indeed a sight for sore eyes!

"He can bring a lot. We need those numbers (from 2011) again," coach Haynes told us afterward.

Quarterbacks David Fisher and Colin Reardon both took time with the other first string offensive players against the first and second team defenses. They both looked pretty good and I think either is capable of leading the team. Coach Haynes said neither has taken a "lead" in the competition.

"We're still trying to put some offense in and both of those guys are still learning so they are going to make some mistakes. We won't have a great feel until after the jersey scrimmage (Aug 17)."

The Flashes will have a pair of practice sessions tomorrow before a kick scrimmage on Saturday morning.

Until next time!

TL