Spring Practice Five - A Lighter Day

Sorry for not snapping a picture today, but there wasn't really anything new to see. Actually, the Deacs went with a little bit lighter practice today, dropping back to just shells (no pants) like they did at last Saturday's practice. I believe tomorrow's practice is scheduled to be full pads again.

Because there was less contact the coaches really seemed to be using today to work heavily on technique. I paid particular attention to some of the drills the offensive and defensive lineman were doing.

The offensive linemen were working on pass blocking footwork. We've heard for awhile now that the coaches want the offensive line to be lighter and quicker this season, and clearly that's what they were working towards today. I heard Lobo say something to the effect of "we're losing weight so we can cover ground fast."

The defensive lineman were also perfecting various techniques, as I saw them working on how to engage and release from offensive linemen. Boo Robinson looked like he had a particularly good handle on the technique and coach McCartney was very complimentary of him. He was even showing some of the younger guys where they didn't quite have it right and helping them out. I liked seeing him step up to lead like that.

I felt like today's practice lacked the energy that I'd seen in the first few practices. I think the reason for this could be a combination of things; I think the excitement that comes with the first couple practices is starting to wear off, plus because there was less contact today the guys weren't quite as hyped up. I could tell the coaches were a bit frustrated by the effort level at times, particularly with the offense in some of the drills against the defense.

Although they weren't perfect, the defense looked solid all afternoon and definitely seemed to have more spark than the offense. I've consistently been impressed by the energy Aaron Curry has - definitely the most of anyone at practice. It translates to good work by him in the drills, but also fires up the rest of the team.

In the full offense vs. defense session at the end of practice the offensive line was struggling to contain the D-line's pass rush. The defense definitely seemed to have the upper hand and I really wasn't impressed with the O-line. They looked better run blocking than they did pass blocking but weren't particularly impressive in either.

Y'lou and Pendegrass looked good offensively today, and Demir Boldin also caught my eye with an impressive run after a catch.

Hopefully the guys will have a bit more energy out there tomorrow, particularly as they go back to heavier contact.