April 9, 2011
NORFOLK, Va. -- The ODU Football Monarchs took to Foreman Field at S.B. Ballard Stadium for the first time this spring for a controlled scrimmage with officials.
The Monarchs ran four "quarters" or segments focusing on all three phases - offense, defense, and special teams and also managed to work in some goal line drills.
"I'm pleased with our `think fast, play fast' mentality," noted Wilder on his team's first foray onto Foreman Field this spring. "I thought the scrimmage was very physical."
Spring Scrimmage Highlights:
Spring Scrimmage Interviews:
As Coach Wilder mentions in the video, the offense dominated the first segment.
Among the highlights of the offense's explosive first set included:
The offense needing just four plays to reach the end zone following Colby Goodwyn's 50 yard kick return.
Thomas DeMarco with a 30-yard pass to wide receiver Prenctice Gill followed by a lob to running back Angus Harper into the end zone.
The PAT unit faked the extra point attempting a two-point conversion.
After missing a field goal on fourth down, the offense punched back with Mario Crawford talking off down the left sideline and over the goal line.
The defense turned around to dominate the second set. Among the stops from the Monarch defenders:
Corner J.C. Wiggins breaking up a pass intended for Marquel Thomas.
Linebacker Rodney Hunter intercepting a pass intended for Chris Lovitt.
On third down, Nate Ong launched a 30-yard pass to Thomas, but the drive ended on the next play as defensive end Alex Johnson recovered a fumble.
Fellow linebacker Michael Williams and defensive end Edmon McClam, as well as defensive tackles Ronnie Cameron and Nate Barnes also recorded sacks.
On special teams, during live punt returns, Alex Arain came charging in to force Reid Evans to fumble. Aaron Evans picked up the ball and ran into the end zone.
Both the offense and defense took turns earning points during the third and fourth segments. Quarterback Rashad Manley showed his ability to run the ball when pressured and managed to connect with Antonio Vaughan on a few deep routes. Defensively, defensive end B.J. McLaughlin got into the mix with a sack and Paul Morant and T.J. Cowart both tipped passed, nearly getting the turnovers.
The Football Monarchs return to practice on Monday.