Aug. 17, 2008
Norfolk, Va. - Day four of the Old Dominion University preseason football camp saw the Monarchs continue to improve in nearly every segment, but the most memorable moment of the day came during a special teams period.
While working on punt protection and coverage linebacker EJ Watts, formerly of Powhatan High School, stepped in as the punter on the final snap of the period. Watts was an all-district punter in high school and he showed why by launching a kick 60 plus yards, to the enjoyment of the entire team. He had been punting along with the kickers during the week, serving mostly as an extra leg during special teams drills, but even then he had been routinely punting between 40-45 yards.
Not to be outdone, punter Benjamin Knerr also had a solid day averaging 40 plus yards as well.
At the quarterback position Bobby Cooper and Dan Pitts both looked good at times and it was evident that they're becoming more comfortable each day. Working with the first team, Cooper showed that he has a strong arm and can make all of the throws, one in particular he squeezed in between defenders during 7-on-7. During the 1-on-1 session Pitts was picked off by Donald Smith on one play, but quickly bounced back to make two great throws including a touchdown pass to Chris Lovitt who had gotten behind DeAnthonyJones.
The Monarchs will be in full pads tomorrow for the first time when practice resumes at 9 a.m.
A reminder that due to safety concerns ODU football practices are CLOSED to the public. Fans will have the opportunity to see the Monarch football team during one of the three scrimmages this fall.