April 1, 2011
NORFOLK, Va. -- For the first time since November 20th of last season, the ODU Football Monarchs took the field in full pads.
"It was great to get out here and play some tackle football.," said Wilder. "We saw some really good things," said Wilder. " I really like our speed right now. Its very noticeable and at every position."
Nate Ong and Rashad Manley got reps in at No. 1 quarterback throughout the practice.
"It was really good for both Nate and Rashad to get that work," said Wilder. "It was especially good to see Nate play tackle football. He got hit a number of times, either as he was releasing the football or when he was running the ball. He got a sense of what the collisions are going to be like in CAA Football."
Ong connected with Marquel Thomas in the end zone on a number of plays and helped orchestrate a 90-yard plus drive.
"A couple of those plays within that 90-yard drive, Nate got hit hard, and then picked himself off the ground," noted Wilder. "He showed some toughness today."
Defensively, the white shirts were able to create some pressure. Of note, Ronnie Cameron and Edmon McClam were among the member of the defensive line breaking their way through the offense. John Darr also got into the mix and was able to pick off a pass.
"Other than the one long drive they gave up, I see us getting better particularly with our pursuit to the ball," Wilder said of the defense.
Special teams work saw the Monarchs work on punt assault.
As mentioned, there is no two-deep yet for specials teams, with the coaching staff using teams of both offensive and defensive players. However, you could hear Coach Wilder urging "Who's going to make the depth chart?" whenever each group took its reps.
The Monarchs hit the field next on Sunday.
MONARCH MOMENTS:
SUDDEN CHANGE:
Due to the inclement weather Wednesday, the Monarchs added a practice on Sunday at 1 p.m. at Powhatan. The team will once again be in full pads.
SCRIMMAGE REMINDER:
While the ODU Football Monarchs aren't in action this Saturday, the squad will host a pair of scrimmages at Foreman Field at S.B. Ballard Stadium on April 9th and April 16th. Both start at 1 p.m. and are open to the public.