Aug. 20, 2008
Norfolk, Va. - Defense appeared to be the theme of day seven of the Old Dominion University preseason football camp as the Monarchs in the white jerseys turned in a solid effort.
The wide receivers and defensive backs worked on releasing off the line and press coverage during one session and one player that clearly stood out was Devon Simmons. At 6-foot-2, 180 pounds, Simmons was physical at the line of scrimmage and gave the receivers plenty of trouble with his ability jam.
Chris Burnette continued to impress along the defensive line, as did several others including Erik Saylor and Tyler Smith and Devin Coleman. During the final team session the defensive line held the offense to minimal gains on the ground and put continual pressure on the Monarch quarterbacks.
One concern during day seven has to be the health of the wide receivers. Carlos Davis, Marvin Bryant and Desmond Williams were all sidelined with injuries and Bryan Clarke went down with an apparent shoulder injury as well as he attempted to make a spectacular diving catch.
The Monarchs return to the field tomorrow at 8 a.m. when they'll focus primarily on special teams before returning at 3:35 p.m. for a 50-60 play scrimmage.