NORFOLK, Va. - Old Dominion University Football practices for the fifth time this camp and for the first time in full pads on Friday morning.
On another warm morning, both the offense and defense continued to make plays. Shuler Bentley got the offense started with a 30-yard touchdown pass to Melvin Vaughn while David Washington flipped a 30-yarder to Ray Lawry.
Later in the team session Sean Carter intercepted a pass for the defense while C.J. Bradshaw forced a fumble that the defense recovered, while Jordan Young intercepted a pass and returned it for a touchdown.
Spotlight On: Center Nick Clarke
Last season Nick Clarke turned in a strong performance in the season opener at Eastern Michigan and eventually turned into the starter at center, starting eight games and earning Conference USA All-Rookie Team honors. Looking to build off of that experience, Clarke and the rest of the offensive line are learning how to prepare for the 2016 season.
"One of the things I want to improve on his how we prepare, keeping my body right and watch film," Clarke said. " Knowing how to see the defense better. As center I need to know everything and make all the calls. I'll get with Coach Malone and see how he scouts defenses.
Clarke is one of five offensive linemen that have started a game for the Monarchs as he will now be looked to as one of the more experienced players up front.
"I'm trying to pass down what I learned last year to the younger guys," Clarke said.