2014 Spring Game Notes

Yesterday’s Spring Game featured a lot of the same things we’ve seen in practices this year, but with a scoring system and a crowd, things were a bit more interesting. Here’s what went on:

1. The Flames began the event with their usual drills.
2. The coaches decided to play touch instead of tackle to avoid injury. This really hurt guys like Des Rice who are used to keeping their legs moving after contact.
3. Despite being disadvantaged under the touch rule, the offense played well, using the passing game to effectively move the ball.
4. The staff often times tried a five wide set in third or fourth and short situations, it’ll be interesting to see if they implement a similar strategy come August.
5. The play of the day has to go to Josh Woodrum and Darrin Peterson, who hooked up on a long pass that Peterson was able to break away on and Woodrum was able to drop right in the breadbasket.
6. Stephon Masha had an impressive drive, throwing accurately while on the run numerous times. He has a nice zip to his passes but lacks consistency.
7. Javan Shashaty also had a nice day for the Flames. He led the “game winning drive” for the offense, hooking up with Todd Macon on the final play, giving the offense a 70-52 victory over the defense.
8. Perhaps the most impressive part of the QB play was the zero interceptions.
   

   Cory Freeman received the Luke 2:52 award.

9. One guy that has been one of my favorites to watch this spring, Tyrin Holloway, led the team with six “tackles”, but was also burned deep by Darrin Peterson.
10. Nolan Spicer had two sacks for the defense.
11. Justin Fritts won the offensive Samkon Gado, for being the most improved player in spring camp. Fritts had two receptions in the game, but will be on the outside of the core receivers come fall.
12. Ray Ferguson won the defensive Samkon Gado, and will be challenging for the nickel back in the upcoming season.
13. Cory Freeman received the Luke 2:52 award for whole person development.