ASU Hornets Battle in Final Preseason Scrimmage

Photo: Alabama State University Head Football Coach Reggie Barlow
By Alabama State Hornets Football
Barlow happier with offense's operation

Alabama State head coach Reggie Barlow wasn't quite sure how to summarize Alabama State's final preseason scrimmage held Saturday morning at Cramton Bowl.

"Overall, it as ok, I guess," Barlow said. "There were positives and negatives. Still, way too many mistakes - penalties, dropped passes, that stuff. But the effort was there. The guys played hard.

Barlow tried to simulate game situations as much as possible. Offensive coordinator Maurice Harris sat above the field calling the plays, and they were signaled in to the quarterbacks from the sidelines. Apparently, that solved a problem Barlow had identified earlier in the week.

"Our operation was much smoother," he said. "We were able to get the call in and get to the line with no problems."

The offense had great success running the ball in Wednesday's scrimmage. However, the defense would have none of that on Saturday. The defensive line had a virtual standoff with the offensive line, not allowing many holes for running backs.

"I thought they (defensive line) were very good today," Barlow said. "(Greg) Tonico and those guys were able to get some push upfront. I'm sure when I watch the film, even more of them will stand out. They did an excellent job."

After ending the speculation suspense of the quarterback race earlier in the week, Barlow was pleased by both starter Alex Engram and Chris Mitchell's play.

"Alex made some nice throws," Barlow said. "Mitchell, I thought, was very solid too. We've got to keep working with him.

"He is so laid back, it sometimes looks like he is nonchalant. Almost like he does care, but he is really playing hard. He'll be ok."

PLAY OF THE DAY: Converted quarterback Darius Mathis made an amazing catch for a 30 yard gain. Mathis was well covered as he sprinted down the sideline. Engram lofted a pass that was well played by the defensive back. However, Mathis jumped over the DB, and deflected the ball to himself, then juggled it before reeling it in and hitting the ground.