Tennessee State Tiger Camp 2016: Day 8

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NASHVILLE, Tennessee -- Day eight of the Tennessee State football preseason camp featured two outdoor practices as the Sept. 3 season opener is quickly approaching. The practices were the final tune up before tomorrow’s intrasquad scrimmage at 9:15 a.m. at Hale Stadium.

The first practice at the upper practice field, which got underway at 7:30 a.m., featured a number of drills split up by position. As the practice shifted to offensive plays, Patrick Smith turned a Michael Hughes pass up the right sideline for a significant gain. The first session concluded with field goal attempts for the special teams unit.

The 5:15 p.m. practice at Hale Stadium was highlighted by a 6-on-7 passing drill to open things up. The defense initially had the upper hand with Trevion Duncan coming up with an interception. The offense regrouped with touchdown receptions from Ronald Butler and Ronnie Killings later in the drill.

Special teams was again a focus with field goals, kick off protection and punt return all occurring during the second practice.

NOTES: Practice One Temperature: 83 degrees… Practice Two Temperature: 85 degrees… Tomorrow’s scrimmage is set for 9:15 a.m. on campus at Hale Stadium.

Defensive Coordinator, Osita Alaribe
- On how camp has been going
“We’ve been progressing every day, just trying to learn from our mistakes from the previous practice. We’re trying to work on communication and getting guys lined up correctly.”

- On expectations for tomorrow’s scrimmage
“We’re looking for guys to get their assignment and most of all getting to the football and tackling. Tackling will be the biggest thing because this will be the first live tackling day. The main thing I’m looking for tomorrow is tackling.”

Offensive Coordinator, Jeff Parker
- On the progression of the offense
“It’s been going well. We’re very pleased with some of our freshmen who have come in and are helping us immediately. We’re really trying to focus on the running game and making sure we execute that part of our offense. Things are going well.”

- On the focus of tomorrow’s scrimmage
“Making the calls, blocking multiple fronts in the running game as well as the protection. I’m sure we’ll see some blitzing from the defense tomorrow. Just making sure they execute on their calls, locate the blitzers and keep the quarterback upright.



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