TicketsApril 14, 2007
CINCINNATI, Ohio-- Head Coach Brian Kelly put the University of Cincinnati football team through the paces for 50 plays on a crisp Saturday morning. Closing the third week of spring practice, the 17-year head coach has specific plans in mind for his football team.
"We scripted and called plays to look at some younger players that we feel have potential to help this football team," said Kelly. "Today was about looking at individuals that we wanted to evaluate. Marcus Barnett and David Wess are two receivers that we wanted to evaluate. Craig Carey played a lot with the first group.
Heading into the final four workouts of the nontraditional season, the Bearcats remain virtually injury free. Kelly maintains that through the four remaining practices there are position battles still being hotly contested.
"We have some very competitive position battles," stated Kelly. "Angelo Craig and Anthony Hoke are in a fierce competition for a defensive end spot right now. Mike Mickens and DeAngelo Smith are two outstanding cornerbacks. We have great depth at linebacker, but Ryan Manalac and Corey Smith in a great battle."
Closing in on Bearcat Bowl, Kelly reiterated the fact that he has yet to coach a season opener at UC, and that he is focused on the future.
Kelly commented, "I don't mind being reminded about the past, but we live in the now. What you do now will impact how you perform in the future. I want our team to understand that message because we repeat it everyday. We are going to find the best 22 players heading into next fall."
The Bearcats return to practice on Monday at 3:15 p.m. Spring drills culminate on Saturday, April 21 with Bearcat Bowl. The annual intrasquad game kicks off at 7 p.m. at Nippert Stadium.