Fresno State Athletics
Bulldogs eyeing scrimmage No. 1
3/9/2016 12:00:00 AM | Football
By: Matt Burkholder
mburkholder@csufresno.edu
GoBulldogs.com
FRESNO, Calif. - The Fresno State football team took to the practice field for its sixth practice of spring football on Wednesday and popped their pads for a final time in front of its first scrimmage on Saturday.
"Friday will be a no tackle practice," said head coach Tim DeRuyter. "We'll be in half pads on Friday with the scrimmage on Saturday. It'll be a little bit lighter than what we did today, but mentally it's got to be cranked up."
Fans should expect to see a motivated team and new energy, from players and coaches alike, when the team opens Bulldog Stadium to the public on Saturday for their first scrimmage of three.
"I think when people come out and watch us on Saturday at the scrimmage they'll notice it," said DeRuyter about a different energy from his players. "Anytime you have new sets of eyes, guys have a new lease on life per say. They have a chance to redefine themselves, good or bad. And I think our guys have taken to evaluating where they were and where they need to improve and they've come out with really great energy to try and impress the coaches."
The defense created three turnovers on Wednesday during team practice periods. Robert Stanley was the recipient of a deflected ball, while Nela Otukolo and Anthoula Kelly jumped in front of a pair of passes. Kelly returned his interception to the endzone.
"We had three picks, but we have to do better offensively," said DeRuyter.
The offense responded following its miscues. Aaron Peck continues to standout for the receiving corps, and was a recipient of some solid strikes from quarterback Chason Virgil.
"Aaron Peck made some great third down catches," DeRuyter noted. "Da'Mari [Scott] had a big ball downfield, Dejonte O'Neal had a big play, we had a bunch of guys making plays. It's good and bad."
As each year is when the Bulldogs prepare against each other, it's always what side of the coin one looks at when the team faces off against each other.
The Red Wave is invited to see for itself on Saturday at Bulldog Stadium. Practice will start at approximately 8:30 a.m.
"Be Bold!" - The official home of the Fresno State Bulldogs is 940 AM ESPN Radio.
