`Jacks D Continues to be Strong
8/16/2005 12:00:00 AM | Football
Aug. 16, 2005
NACOGDOCHES - Stephen F. Austin head coach Robert McFarland and his staff got another good look at a Lumberjack defense that continues to swarm after the ball and come up with big plays. The Lumberjack offense also hit on some big plays Saturday morning as well.
Senior Zeke Dixon made a nice play rolling out to his left and completing a pass between two defenders to Carl Price for solid gain. The offense also was sparked by freshman Damian Perkins who gained some tough yards up the middle, followed by a 50-yard scamper down the left side of the field. Perkins was denied a touchdown due to the pursuit of Stephon Rhea. TCU transfer James Battle showed his athletic ability picking up a seven-yard gain on a quarterback keeper.
"Today the offense showed us a little more," said head coach Robert McFarland. "The defense bent a little today and the offense took advantage. Our offense is taking baby steps forward right now we just need more of them. Our defense takes great pride in what they do and its great to see the success that they are having."
The defensive unit continues to fly the football with a lot of speed and quickness. On numerous occasions Tuesday morning, a defender made a play on the ball to break up a pass. When the quarterbacks completed a pass, the yards after the catch were held to a minimum. The secondary also stepped up to pick off a couple of passes, including one by senior Krys Williams to prevent a touchdown. The speed of the defensive was never more evident that when Rhea chased down Perkins to prevent the score.
"The signing class that we brought has a lot of speed at the skill positions," said McFarland. "Add to that the speed that some of our transfers bring to the team and we have some guys that can get after the ball carrier."
The `Jacks return to the field tonight at 7:30 for their next practice. The team will not be in pads tonight as it will focus more on assignments. Practices are free and open to the public.
Notes: Despite the everyday bumps and bruises that come from fall camps, the `Jacks have been able to avoid injuries through the first two weeks of camp.
The `Jacks will hold their lone scrimmage of fall camp on Saturday at Homer Bryce Stadium. The scrimmage is set to begin at 8 a.m., from Homer Bryce Stadium.
