Hurricanes Practice in Pads
Aug. 8, 2005
Coral Gables, Fla. (www. hurricanesports.com) – – The University of Miami football team’s Monday morning workout consisted of a two-hour practice in shoulder pads and shorts at the Greentree Practice Fields. Although the practice did not include all-out contact, there was more intensity on the field. Players ended up on the turf in several one-on-one and team drills.
“This was the first day we had pads on,” head coach Larry Coker said. “There was a little more contact.”
The defense seemed to get the better of the offense in team drills, thanks in large part to the center-quarterback exchange. “The defense looks like it hasn’t missed a beat,” Coker said. “They jumped on the offense and was ready to play. That’s very encouraging.”
More than one fumble was picked up by the defense, including one that was returned for a short touchdown by defensive end Thomas Carroll.
“I think we have to work hard on the efficiency on offense. We had too many balls on the ground,” Coker said. “(Snapping) is an area of efficiency we have to continue to work on. But that’s every year. I don’t care if you’re a veteran or not a veteran.”
While the team drills belonged to the defense, the Hurricane receivers took over the individual drills. Sinorice Moss and Lance Leggett both beat one-on-one coverage on post patterns, as did Ryan Moore on a corner route.
Cramping and heat-related complications that took effect on some student-athletes during Sunday’s practice seemed to be remedied and less of a factor on Monday morning.
“You drink water, but you really need to force it,” Coker said “When you see the hydration problems (referring to Sunday), I think guys get the message more than if you’re just talking about it.”
Hydrating to prevent cramping and dehydration is an all-day process, beginning with drinking fluids the night before practice, Coker said.
Quarterback Kirby Freeman, who was taken to the hospital for tests and observation yesterday due to heat-related complications, was back at practice and ran sprints at the end of practice. “He did everything right. I was impressed with Kirby today,” Coker said. “It doesn’t surprise me. That’s him, that’s just what he’s made of.”
Practices for Tuesday and Wednesday have been rescheduled to start at 2:30 p.m. at the Greentree Practice Fields.
Notes:
-Coker re-iterated his position on the competition for center after practice: “It would be a concern if we didn’t have any players. We have three guys, maybe four, who can work and play at that position. The center position will be fine. We have 26 more practices to play, so that will be resolved.”
-Ryan Moore returned to practice after leaving the field Sunday with cramps. He was the last Hurricane off the field on Monday.
