Putting pads onuncovers true abilities
Alabama A&M Notebook
08/10/03
Huntsville Times
Putting pads onuncovers true abilities
After five days in shorts as mandated by the NCAA, Alabama A&M will practice in full pads beginning Monday.
While coach Anthony Jones has been pleased with his team's progress in shorts, he's eager to see some real football.
"We've gotten as much done as we can in shorts," he said. "It's time to put the pads on and see what we look like."
Jones will keep a watchful eye on several positions, including the offensive line, where three starters have to be found, wide receiver, defensive tackle and linebacker.
"We want to take a look at all of our players," he said. "When you put pads on, some people will rise and fall. It'll be interesting to see who those people will be."
Shuffling on offensive line: Offensive line coach Cedric Pearl, having to find three new starters, has already made some changes less than a week into practice.
Pearl moved right guard Jonathan Woodard to right tackle, moved center Kristian Smith to right guard and elevated Chris Franklin from backup center to center. Smith and Franklin are both redshirt freshmen.
"We're trying to find our best five linemen and put them on the field," Pearl said. "This is how we're going to go right now. Things could change again before the first game."
The left side of the line remains intact where seldom-used Demond Leslie is at guard and Robert Louis, an All-SWAC selection, is at tackle. Louis says he's not worried about the offensive line.
"We're going to be young on the offensive line, but having Coach Pearl is going to make us good," he said.
Ends in sight: One of the most talented groups on offense, Jones says, is A&M's tight ends.
Senior Jacob Wilson, an All-SWAC preseason pick, leads the way, but redshirt freshman Deshalen Barber and newcomers Curtis Blake and Charles Moody have bolstered the position.
Barber was among A&M's most improved players last spring, while Blake and Moody gives Jones a few options to choose from.
"Blake and Moody are both good athletes," Jones said. "Blake reminds you of Deshalen. He has wide receiver type skills at tight end, while Moody is a traditional tight end."
Calling all fans: A&M will hold its annual Fan Day today at 3 p.m. at Louis Crews Stadium. Soft drinks and hot dogs will be free. Season tickets will also be on sale.
Furthermore: Wide receiver Joktan Roberts, defensive tackle Deandre Washington and fullback Benjamin James remained sidelined. Roberts and Washington are waiting on grades to be worked out, while James is waiting to be cleared from injury.
