TU Football: Saturday Practice Update

The Golden Hurricane football team practiced for 150 minutes on Saturday morning and had its second scrimmage of preseason camp, going 125+ plays on the turf at Chapman Stadium.

Head Coach Bill Blankenship walked off the field after Saturday's morning session pleased with today's practice and how the Hurricane competed. Tulsa will have a brief late afternoon practice session in helmets and shoulder pads for their 10th practice of preseason camp.

“We needed to grind a little bit today. We don't get very many days to tackle and to really get this kind of feel for it. I was very pleased that we competed well on both sides of the ball. I think there was enough give and take that you walk off the field thinking Tulsa won today,” said Blankenship.

“Defensively, I thought we did a good job of holding after the offense got into the red zone. In other words, I thought the offense drove it, but didn't finish and you have to give the defense credit for that,” added Blankenship. “The offense took care of the football, but the defense didn't get any turnovers. So, I think that's a concern depending what side of the ball your on.”

Blankenship cited the play of two sophomores on offense after today's scrimmage. “Keevan Lucas really bounced back today, and had a better day from a couple days ago when he had some drops. That was noticeable to me. Dane (Evans) was very efficient. He made good decisions,” said Blankenship.

“I think we're continuing to rally on defense. I think we're running to the ball well. I think we gave up too many big plays, but were rallying more on defense,” said Blankenship. “Offensively, I thought we operated pretty well, but no really big plays.”

Blankenship also indicated that junior Joseph Calcagni has moved into the No. 2 quarterback position. “Joe has moved into the number two role now. I thought when we first came back that Jabe (Burgess) kind of took a step back like freshmen do. Joe's a fourth-year guy and he didn't let the jitters get to him, and I think Jabe has a little bit. But, we're not down on Jabe at all,” said Blankenship.

After one full week of practice, Blankenship likes the progress that the Hurricane has made in the first eight days.

“I didn't know where to think we'd be after one week. I think we're going in the right direction. I wouldn't say we're a good football team yet, but I'd say we're playing much better. I think we're more efficient on offense and defense. We're going in the right direction,” said Blankenship.

Tulsa will not practice Sunday and will return to the practice field on Monday morning.