Central Michigan University Athletics
Football Looks To Wrap Up Spring Practice
4/15/2002 12:00:00 AM | Football
April 15, 2002
MOUNT PLEASANT -- The Central Michigan University football team is down to three. The Chippewas have three practices left in the spring season, the last such practices before the season launches in the fall.
Entering the final week, head coach Mike DeBord wants to see his team put in the effort to finish strong. While the defense has showed a lot of promise this offseason, DeBord still sees room for improvement on the offensive side of the ball.
"I think our defense is starting to finish," said the third-year head coach. "Our offense, however, needs to execute better and needs to improve this week. We need to improve at all positions on offense, especially at the passing game."
The defense, having only lost three players from a season ago, has spent a lot time together on the gridiron. A fact that DeBord is quick to point out after watching another week of solid defense from his team.
"The difference in our defense this season is experience. Our defense has playing experience, strength experience and knows what is expected of it. We have a lot of players out there who have played a lot football."
Two of the players lost to graduation were defensive standouts Tedaro France and Rico Epps. While the two were tough defenders on the corners, DeBord is pleasantly surprised with what he has seen from his youthful cornerbacks.
"Our corners have stepped it up for young guys," noted DeBord. "When you watch them, they hit like they want the moment. You can tell that want the opportunity to play football." But, DeBord is also quick to note that defense is a team effort.
"Defense is a team game," DeBord said. "It's important to play your position and our guys have bought in to what you're supposed to do."
The Chippewas enter their last week with no significant injuries to report. They will wrap up their three practices on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday of this week. Practices are at 9:30 a.m., with the final practice featuring the offense going against the defense in live drills on Saturday at 1 p.m.
