After a four-day acclimation period, two in helmets and two in shells, the Blazers are eligible for full-contact drills for the first time all fall practice. Today’s practice, set for an 8:45 a.m. start, will also mark the team’s first full-team practice after four days of split squad practices.
"What I am more excited about is getting the entire team together," Valdosta State head coach David Dean said. "That, to me, is going to be fun. Seeing the two groups mesh together. But, yeah, this is when football starts — when you start figuring out how physical guys are; are they afraid of contact? Can they move when the pads are on?
"Everyone can run around when there are just helmets on and you know you're not going to get hit," Dean continued.
Thursday’s practice was closed to media members. Dean said the practice was closed so they could introduce new schemes without media around.
Players impressing in camp
When asked what players were having impressive camps thus far, Dean said linebackers Ryan Smith and Jeremy Grabel are having "outstanding" camps. Offensively, Dean said wide receiver Seantavious Jones is having a good camp, along with Gerald Ford.Dean said quarterback Cayden Cochran has thrown the ball "very well."
Running backs making mistakes, learning
The running back position at Valdosta State is thin this season, but Dean said the backs in camp have been working hard and are learning from their mistakes."We have some young running backs, that while they don't always do the right thing, you can tell they have some ability," Dean said. "I am really excited to see now if they are able to run and break tackles."
Mathews making interceptions
Linebacker Chas Mathews is fighting for the final starting linebacker spot (with Grable) and Dean said Mathews is making a name for himself this camp by recording several interceptions throughout passing skeleton and team situations.Blazers staying healthy
Dean knocked on the table he was sitting by when he said besides one knee injury to an offensive lineman, the Blazers have managed to stay healthy through the first four days of fall camp. Dean said some players have suffered from "heat issues". Dean said the lone injury, lineman Scott Crawford, will not practice until he is evaluated by team doctors.The Blazers’ first scrimmage of the fall will be Aug. 18. They conclude fall camp with a second scrimmage Aug. 24 before hosting the annual Meet the Blazers event Aug. 25. Valdosta State opens regular season play Sept. 1.
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