Temple University Athletics
SPRING FOOTBALL NOTEBOOK: OWLS HOLD FIRST TACKLING SESSION AS SNOW FLURRIES FALL AT TEMPLE STADIUM
4.6.02 | Football
"We haven't had a scrimmage yet, so we've just been installing the offense and working on defensive schemes," said head coach Bobby Wallace when asked about the team's progression at the conclusion of Saturday's drills. "I will know more after tomorrow. So far I'm pleased. The players have shown great attitudes and the practices have been very up-tempo."
Saturday's practice was a spirited one. The first scuffle of the spring broke out, a minor altercation between linebacker Leon Gray and guard Joe Laudano that was quickly squelched.
"I didn't see anything wrong with it," said Wallace. "It's always better to have to pull the reigns back than to have to try and push them. It's the first (tackling) day and the guys are enthusiastic, wanting to prove themselves and show they can compete."
With seventeen starters (10 offense, seven defense) returning from last season's 4-7 squad, there are plenty of players available to assume leadership roles. As the first week of spring practice winds to a close, these returning starters, including the defense's "Men In Black," have not disappointed.
"The guys that have played a lot of football for us look good right now," said Wallace. "Terrance Leftwich, (Dan) Klecko and (Rob) Sack on the inside, Jairo Almonte, Lafton Thompson, Tanardo (Sharps) and (Sean) Dillard all look sharp. The people we expected to be the leaders have stepped up. Some new guys have also caught our eye a little bit. (Wide receiver) Terrence Stubbs, although he's not new by any stretch of the imagination - we've missed him over the past couple years with injuries, has looked extremely good. I've also been happy with the performance of the offensive line."
New offensive coordinator David Brock, a native of nearby Moorestown, N.J., has proven to be a very vocal and animated coach in his first week on the gridiron directing the Temple offense.
"I have been very impressed with his enthusiasm, attention to detail and the way that he demands things from not only his players, but the coaches on that side of the ball," said Wallace. "He is very tuned into what he wants done and how he wants it done."
The Owls have remained healthy through the first week of spring drills. The only injury of note is a sprained right ankle sustained by junior running back and return specialist Makkonen Fenton. The Somerville, Mass. native is expected to return to the practice field later next week.
