2009 PHOENIX FOOTBALL

PRESEASON PRACTICE REPORTS

Sat., Aug. 29 – 3:00 p.m. – Rhodes Stadium 

ELON, N.C. – The 2009 Elon football preseason came to a close on Saturday afternoon as the Phoenix completed its third scrimmage of camp in Rhodes Stadium. Beginning on Sunday, coach Pete Lembo’s squad will begin its game week preparations for next Saturday’s season-opener against the Davidson Wildcats at home at 7 p.m.

“The purpose of today was to work on our game day operations, sideline organization and to work out the kinks in logistics so we are smooth in those areas starting next Saturday night,” said Lembo. “When you have some new coaches, new players and new support staff you’re going to have some bugs to work out.”

The scrimmage opened with a six-play script by the Phoenix offense before the first and second team offenses and defenses went through a few more scripted series. Special teams situations were positioned in between each offensive series.

Following a simulated halftime, junior quarterback Scott Riddle scrambled away from pressure and found senior receiver Terrell Hudgins in the back of the end zone for a touchdown during a red zone set. In other red zone situations, sophomore running back Jamal Shuman had TD runs of nine and five yards while red-shirt freshman kicker Adam Shreiner booted a 35-yard field goal.

Said Lembo, “We put an emphasis on our red zone offense and defense throughout preseason. We had an excellent field goal kicker last year, but we’re hoping to increase our percentage of touchdowns when we get into the red zone this year. On the other side, we’re working toward improving our defense in that same important area.”

During a fake punt, senior defensive back Cameron McGlenn recovered a fumble and returned it for a touchdown.

The Phoenix worked on numerous special teams sets throughout the second half of the scrimmage as well.

Lembo added, “For the players, we tried to incorporate some scenarios that may occur next Saturday or may not happen until October or November. We need to know how to react when we get in those situations.”

The practice ended with another offense vs. defense scrimmage period.

“We gave our younger players the opportunity to scrimmage,” stated Lembo. “Many of them will red-shirt or have a role on the scout team this fall. We wanted to take advantage of this time to give them some quality live work.”

 

ELON, N.C. -- Every Thursday during Elon football’s preseason camp we will sit down with Phoenix players to get their perspective on how camp is progressing and their thoughts on the upcoming season. This week we spoke with junior defensive back Terell Wilson. The Phoenix hits the Hunt and Tucker practice fields again on Friday afternoon at 2:15 p.m.

The defensive backfield is a very experienced unit. How does that impact what you’re able to do on the field?

TW: We don’t have to go over things that the freshmen and sophomores may have to and we’re able to teach them. With experienced guys we’re able to take things a step further.

We’re coming up on the end of camp now. In what area have you seen the most improvement both overall on the defense and in your game?

TW: I think the most improved part of our defense is our defensive line. This year you can see that they have matured and are ready to take that next step. For me, I’ve matured a lot both on and off the field. I understand the game a lot better now than I have the last two years.

How has this camp compared to the first two that you’ve been through here at Elon?

TW: You can see that the intensity is picking up. It’s a whole different camp this year. The guys know what’s ahead. They’re not soft on anyone and are going hard every day. That’s making us a better team.

What are your goals, both as a team and individually, this year?

TW: We expect nothing less than a ring. We have big plans of getting to the championship game. You can see it in practice, we’re working toward that. Personally, I want to leave everything on the field. I don’t feel like I’ve done that the last couple of years.

 

Wed., Aug. 26 – 7:30 p.m. – Rhodes Stadium

ELON, N.C. – Following Elon’s Fan Appreciation Day held on the Rhodes Stadium concourse Wednesday night, the Phoenix football team held its second scrimmage of the preseason in front of Phoenix faithful on the McKinnon Field turf. The fans on hand witnessed a solid start by the offense, a strong defensive performance and 5-for-6 field goal outing from red-shirt freshman Adam Shreiner.

The Elon offense looked like it was heading for a big night when sophomore running back Jamal Shuman broke a 20-yard run on the first play of the night before adding another 15-yard pick-up during the opening drive. Shreiner would cap that drive by drilling a 39-yard field goal.

Sophomore running back A.J. Harris started the next series with another big run, reeling off a 64-yard gain on the second play of the drive. The Phoenix offense was unable to punch the ball in for a score, but Shreiner nailed a 27-yard field goal at the end of the series.

Elon head coach Pete Lembo stated, “Jamal Shuman and A.J. Harris have had really productive camps. With Brandon Newsome and Dontay Taylor we’ve a lot of guys to go to who have played in meaningful games for us.”

After junior quarterback Scott Riddle found junior wide receiver Lance Camp for a 39-yard reception the Phoenix defense turned up the heat with three consecutive sacks for losses of five, seven and three yards.

Following a period of punting work, the defense continued to ratchet up the pressure. Red-shirt freshman defensive lineman Olufemi Lamikanra notched a sack before Karlos Sullivan returned an interception more than 50 yards for a touchdown, the only TD scored during the workouts.

Shreiner hit his third field goal of the evening in between two special teams periods, this time connecting from 37 yards out.

On the next team period, junior defensive lineman Brandon Ward recorded another sack (one of four on the night for Ward) before Shreiner hit a 38-yard field goal.

The next possession saw two more sacks before the squad worked on kickoff coverage and returns.

The final period of the night was an overtime drill. On the first possession, Shreiner hit a 32-yard field goal. Freshman defensive back Blake Thompson ended the next attempt with an interception at the goal line.

“Adam (Shreiner) has continued to improve throughout the preseason,” said Lembo. “Special teams coordinator Dave Ungerer has made a few tweaks in Adam’s technique that are paying off.”

On the final two possessions of the night the defense produced goal line stands, stopping the Phoenix attack after a first and goal from the four and a first and goal from the three.

Speaking of the defensive line Lembo added, “Our defensive line, going as far back as spring practice, has been very solid. I’m pleased with how hard they have played. We have guys with good motors and who play with great intensity.”

The Phoenix hits the Hunt and Tucker practice fields for a 2:15 p.m. workout on Thursday afternoon.

 

Every Tuesday during the preseason, we will sit down with one of the Elon Phoenix football coaches for their take on camp, the upcoming season and what players fans should be watching this fall. This week we sit down with offensive coordinator Rich Skrosky.

You’re now the third offensive coordinator in three years for this team. What effect does that have on the players?

RS: It doesn’t have that big of an effect because our system really hasn’t changed. The terminology has stayed consistent. I think the bigger thing is the internal movement. The wide receivers have had a different coach every year. It’s tougher to become a detailed player and we need to become masters in detail. The playbook is essentially the same as it was four years ago. These plays have always been in our playbook.

Are there any changes we should look for in the offense in 2009?

RS: I don’t know if it’s a change, but I’d like to think that we’ll be more consistent. Our philosophy is to take advantage of what the defense gives us – be that long passes, screens or the running game – and to take advantage of our personnel. We’re fortunate to have some very talented kids and we have to find the ways to best utilize their skills.

What do you feel will be the strength of the offense this year?

RS: I think our kids up front may be our biggest strength. Our offensive line has played a lot of football. At quarterback, Scott Riddle is very talented. The biggest thing with Scott is to become more detailed. Our wide receivers, led by Terrell Hudgins, have done a lot and we have good depth at halfback. We’re a little untested at tight end. Andre Labinowicz played a decent amount last year at that position.

You mentioned the depth at running back. Talk a little about that position.

RS: It’s a great problem to have, having four really strong guys at that position. They all have certain traits and we have to take advantage of those. Coach (Scott) Browne does a great job with them and has kept them all hungry and excited. They know it’s a competition. Jamal Shuman is a breakaway threat every time he touches the ball. A.J. Harris is the unsung guy and provides versatility. Brandon Newsome is a proven, solid player in this league and is a grind it out kind of back. Dontay Taylor was injured last year, but is very powerful and strong.

Which players have surprised you or really stepped up their game during preseason camp?

RS: There have been some unknown guys that have looked good. At tight end, Taylor Berry was a scout team guy last year, but had a great offseason. Fullback Jake Goldsberry has worked hard and keeps getting better and better. Wide receiver Aaron Mellette is showing signs of being a really good player. Jamal Shuman, it’s not really a surprise, but he has matured and become a well-rounded back.

What are your expectations for the offense this year?

RS: My expectations are really high. We need to meld into a consistent unit and if we do that we can be very good. There are enough guys that can make plays and have experience on this team. We haven’t done anything yet and I don’t get the sense that we’re comfortable. We’ve still got a sour taste from last year.

 

Mon., Aug. 24 – 8:00 a.m. – Hunt/Tucker Fields

ELON, N.C. – The Elon Phoenix football team began its final day of two-a-days with an 8:00 a.m. practice on Monday morning from the Hunt and Tucker practice fields. The session lasted a little over two hours.

The practice featured two pass skeletons, two team periods and one scout team period. The scout period saw both the offense and defense work on some specific looks that the Phoenix will probably see from opponents during the season.

During the pass skeleton sessions, both red-shirt freshman Vincent Pompliano and junior Sean Jeffcoat posted big receptions.

Defensively, senior Cameron McGlenn had a good day playing at both the corner and safety positions during both the “thud” and pass skeleton periods. McGlenn picked off a pass during the pass skeleton.

Sophomore kicker Eric Carstens capped the practice by drilling a 40-yard field goal.

Defensive coordinator Jay Bateman said, “Our kids are excited for the final two-a-day practices. We will go again tonight and hope to have a number of fans come out and watch one of our final night practices of the preseason.”

Elon will be back on the fields at 7:30 p.m. on Monday night before staying off the field on Tuesday. Coupled with Elon’s Fan Appreciation Day which begins at 5:30 p.m., the Phoenix will hold its second scrimmage of the preseason at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday night in Rhodes Stadium. All practices are open to the public.

 

Sat., Aug. 22 – 7:30 p.m. – Rhodes Stadium

ELON, N.C. – Not long after a passing shower cooled the evening air to a comfortable temperature, the Elon Phoenix football team took to the field at Rhodes Stadium for the first time this preseason for its first scrimmage of camp. Over 150 Phoenix faithful turned out to watch the workouts, including over 50 women who participated in Elon’s Third Annual Football 101 Women’s Clinic.

During the scrimmage, the Phoenix took part in two move the ball drills and team periods which focused on the two-minute drill, overtime, red zone situations and goal line conditions. Throughout the night Elon’s special teams worked on all facets of its game – punting, punt return, kickoff coverage, kickoff returns, PATs and field goals.

Head coach Pete Lembo said, “Our first defense played very well throughout the night. Several of our younger players had very productive outings.”

Lembo recognized defensive back Brandon Spurlock who made some big tackles, linebacker Jordan Jones who picked off a pass and linebacker Lionel Shoffner who notched a tackle for a loss.

Offensively, Lembo noted that running back A.J. Harris looked good both running the ball and catching screen passes. Receivers Sean Jeffcoat, Lance Camp and Rasaun Rorie had solid outings with Camp hauling in a touchdown pass from Scott Riddle and Rorie collecting a score from Thomas Wilson.

Eric Carstens and Adam Shreiner each had good nights working on their kickoffs while Darrius McQueen stood out in special teams drills.

Lembo added, “On the negative side of things we had some penalties that twice negated big runs and another that was added onto a play which backed the defense up in the red zone. Those are things that we have to get corrected quickly.”

The team will work out once on Sunday – a 2:15 p.m. session from the Hunt and Tucker practice fields. All preseason practices are open to the public.

The Third Annual Football 101 Women’s Clinic was held prior to the scrimmage, beginning at approximately 4:30 p.m. with classroom sessions that covered offense, defense and special teams. That was followed by a trip down on McKinnon Field where participants took part in drills and heard from officials about rules. Following an autograph period with Phoenix players, the women watched the scrimmage from the President’s Box while enjoying hors d’ourves and wine from Grove Winery. Fire Salon also sponsored the event.

 

Fri., Aug. 21 – 7:30 p.m. – Hunt/Tucker Fields

ELON, N.C. – The Elon football squad finished off Friday's two practices with a 7:30 p.m. workout from the Hunt and Tucker practice fields. The session included two pass skeletons, two team periods and ample time for individual work by position. Special teams worked on punt return, punt protection and PAT/FG.

“Last night was one our most enthusiastic, emotional and competitive practices of the entire preseason. The kids really came out and flew around for two hours. Our first defense looked fast. It was good to see the players forge ahead despite some bumps and bruises at this point in camp.

The defense dominated the first team period, which focused on normal down and distances. Andre Campbell had two sacks and Brandon Ward had a pressure. Linebacker Joshua Jones picked off a Scott Riddle pass and safety Nolan Ward had a pass break up. Running back A.J. Harris broke off a long run for a touchdown with the second unit.

The offense came to life in the second team period, which was a live scrimmage featuring third down situations. Jamal Shuman broke off two nice runs and Harris turned a pitch play into his second touchdown of the evening. Freshman receiver Jeremy Peterson continued to stand out with the second unit.

The team had positional meetings and a weight training session Saturday morning in preparation for tonight’s 7:30 p.m. scrimmage in Rhodes Stadium.

 

Fri., Aug. 21 – 8:00 a.m. – Hunt/Tucker Fields

ELON, N.C. – The Elon Phoenix football team was back on the Hunt and Tucker Practice fields on both Thursday afternoon and Friday morning and is quickly heading toward the end of its second week of preseason camp.

On Thursday, head coach Pete Lembo stated that the offense turned in its most productive practice of camp to date during a session which featured two pass skeletons, three team periods (including a four-minute offense situation and a third and short situation) and special teams working on PATs, field goals, punt return (half line drill) and punt protection.

Quarterback Scott Riddle had a big day throwing the ball to several different receivers, including Sean Jeffcoat, Lance Camp and Jeremy Peterson. During a team period, Jeffcoat turned a screen pass into a long touchdown run. Jamal Shuman also posted some good runs during the team periods.

Freshman cornerback David Williams had a good day on Thursday, breaking up one pass and intercepting another during the pass skeleton session. Eric Ludwig and Andre Campbell also led on the defensive side of the ball.

Friday’s 8:00 a.m. practice was conducted in uppers for about two hours and 20 minutes.

The special teams units worked on PATs, field goals, kickoff coverage and kickoff returns. During the PAT/field goal session, the squad went through some unique game situations which may arise only once or twice a season.

During the morning workout the squad went through two pass skeletons dealing with base down and distances. There was also an inside run period and two team periods which focused on red zone situations as well as a combined base down and distances and third down sets.

“This is that midpoint of camp where everybody is sore and tired,” said Lembo. “This is when the real work gets done. It’s now that you develop mental toughness and you find out who can stay focused and get the job done.”

Individually, Lembo mentioned that nose guard Ludwig stood out with his physical play during the inside run period on Friday morning. During the pass skeletons, linebackers Lionel Shoffner and Jared Thompson each intercepted passes while defensive back Terell Wilson broke up two passes in the team periods.

Offensively, Lembo said that running backs Shuman and A.J. Harris had good days running the ball. Quarterback Thomas Wilson also produced another solid workout on Friday morning.

Elon practices again at 7:30 p.m. on Friday at Hunt and Tucker fields night before holding a scrimmage at 7:30 p.m. in Rhodes Stadium on Saturday night. All practices are open to the public.

Thurs., Aug. 20 – 2:15 p.m. – Hunt/Tucker Fields

ELON, N.C. -- Every Thursday during Elon football’s preseason camp we will sit down with Phoenix players to get their perspective on how camp is progressing and their thoughts on the upcoming season. This week we spoke with sophomore running back Jamal Shuman. The Phoenix hits the Hunt and Tucker practice fields again on Friday morning at 8:00 a.m.

This is your second preseason camp here at Elon. How does this one compare to last year’s for you?

JS: I’m definitely more comfortable this year. I know the plays now. I was a little edgy last year and everything was 10 times worse. This season I’m calm and confident.

How has camp been for you personally this year?

JS: I would say that camp’s been ok for me, but I’m hard on myself. I need to work on being more consistent.

In what area of your game do you feel that you have improved the most since last year?

JS: The most improvement has come in my ability to catch the ball. I used to think that I had to catch every ball or I would hear it from coach, but now I just focus on making the catch. I’ve also improved my ability to read defenses and holes.

Can you talk a little about the challenges you faced last year as a freshman adjusting to the college game?

JS: On the field it wasn’t that bad. The mental part was tough. You’re learning new plays every day. The hardest part was making sure you remembered what you learned the previous day as well as all the new stuff.

There are four running backs competing for the starting tailback spot (Shuman, A.J. Harris, Dontay Taylor and Brandon Newsome). How do you guys work together and how has that competition been?

JS: We each have our own advantages. Newsome is probably the most well-rounded, A.J. can catch and flat out run the ball, Dontay has the shiftiness to find holes and I’m the speed back. You practice that much harder to try and earn your spot. We know that the best players have to play. We help each other out all the time. We’re all in this together and are trying to get the ‘W.” In high school I was worn out after every game, but now when someone is winded we can just send someone else in.

What are your expectations for the season, both as a team and individually?

JS: For the team, we just want be in a position to get into the playoffs. For myself, I want to stay consistent. I know I can play, but I want to keep it at a high level. I don’t want to look back at a game and have any regrets. I just want to do my part either on special teams or by running the ball.

ON WEDNESDAY NIGHT’S PRACTICE

In Wednesday night’s second practice session the Phoenix worked around thunderstorms, delaying for about an hour before getting back on the fields. The workouts featured game officials on hand for the first time this preseason.

Head coach Pete Lembo was impressed with the play of the defensive line, especially Eric Ludwig, David Hunt and Andre Campbell. Also on defense, freshman defensive back Alex Encarnacion recorded an interception.

Lembo added that tight end Andre Labinowicz had his best practice of the preseason and that tackle Chris Werden continued his solid camp performance. Thomas Wilson also completed a long touchdown pass to freshman receiver Rasaun Rorie.

Said Lembo, “I was pleased that we got the majority of our work completed despite the weather conditions and the delay due to storms in the area. It was also important to have officials on hand so the players could receive immediate feedback on their ability to play within the rules.” 

 

Wed., Aug. 19 – 8:00 a.m./7:30 p.m. – Hunt/Tucker Fields

ELON, N.C. – In the first of two practices on Wednesday, the Elon Phoenix football team took to the Hunt and Tucker practice fields at 8:00 a.m. in uppers for just over two hours and 15 minutes. The second session of the day will be held at 7:30 p.m in full pads.

On Wednesday morning the team participated in two pass skeletons, including one that focused solely on third downs. There were three team periods – one red zone period, one two-minute drill session and one base down and distances workout. There was also a cross over period in which the tight ends and running backs took on linebackers in pass protection while the wide receivers and defensive backs did a stalk block drill.

Special teams continued to drill on PATs, field goals, punt returns and kickoff coverage.

Head coach Pete Lembo was somewhat disappointed in his squad’s performance on Wednesday morning, stating, “This was a practice that was good enough for us to be a 6-5 football team, but not good enough for us to compete for a conference championship.”

Lembo added, “Coming off of a day off the field, I thought some guys looked sluggish and were not focused enough. We need to be more consistent. At the same time, we did some good things on both sides of the ball.”

During the team periods, three players picked off passes – safety Luke Martin, safety Andrew Straus and linebacker Jordan Jones.

 

ELON, N.C. – Every Tuesday during the preseason, we will sit down with one of the Elon Phoenix football coaches for their take on camp, the upcoming season and what players and fans should be watching this fall. This week we sit down with fourth-year defensive coordinator Jay Bateman.

This is the fourth year on the staff for yourself, Rich Skrosky and Marc Yellock. How has that consistency helped you?

JB: I think the biggest thing is that, on defense, the kids have heard the same thing so many times. They speak the same language we do. We can talk about something we did against an opponent two years ago and they recall that easily.

You have a number of returning starters, officially nine returners. Talk a little about the number of veterans you have on this team.

JB: I look at it as 10 guys back. Brandon Ward played so many snaps last year. The SAM linebacker spot is the only place where we lost a lot of snaps. We were further along in the spring than we ever have been and we’re further along now than we were then. I’ve never had that in my career. Having that many guys back lets us focus on the little things. We can now try and take a kid from good to great. It lets us do things schematically that we couldn’t do in the past. Brian Newberry is in his third season here and was with us at Lehigh, so there’s a lot of continuity on the defensive side of the ball.

What effect does having that many veteran guys have on the younger players?

JB: Nolan (Ward) and Walker (White) are captains this year. Karlos (Sullivan) has played every meaningful snap since he’s been here. The young kids see them and know our expectations.

What do you expect to be the strength of the defense in 2009?

JB: Our depth is our biggest strength. We now have 10 kids that would have started for us our first year. These are all guys that we can count on. I also think that we are fast, experienced and have the right attitude to play defensive football. We have kids that want to be great.

Who has stood out in preseason camp so far?

JB: Andre Campbell has always had the physical tools. Now he’s starting to play with the passion we’ve been wanting to see. David Hunt has gotten bigger and stronger. Linebackers Travis Greene and Dale Riley are competing for the SAM position and both have gotten even better since the spring. In the secondary, our second line kids have given us the confidence to use them in key situations.

Your defense has improved every year and you led the SoCon in total defense in league games a year ago. What do you attribute that improvement to and do you expect more of the same this year?

JB: I think the biggest thing is that we’ve been able to get better players. When we were having to play some of these guys as freshmen, we were thinking how good they would be as juniors and seniors. These are really good kids who care and are passionate. It doesn’t matter to them who makes plays, they just want to be great. Every year you look at what was good and what was bad. We weren’t horrible at anything, but our red zone defense wan’t great. We’ll do some things to improve that. Our offense’s ability to utilize a balanced attack has also been helpful. We see more physical runs in practice and they have established longer drives in games which helps our defense play better.

In your time here you’ve had some very good play at linebacker. What is it about that position that has allowed you to do that?

JB: Chad (Nkang) was a great player. We asked a lot of Corey (Weaver) when he was here. But this group is probably the best overall group that I’ve had. Josh Jones, Lionel Shoffner are both going to be really good in this league. Brandon Wiggins has led us in tackles the last two years. Zach Henderson has done some good things and I feel great about putting him in the game. We’ve done a good job of identifying what we’re looking for in a skill set for recruits. Some of it’s just blind luck. We have a certain type of player we’re looking for at linebacker and we’re going to go after those guys no matter where they’re from or who’s recruiting them.

 

Mon., Aug. 17 – 8:00 a.m. – Hunt/Tucker Fields

ELON, N.C. – The Elon Phoenix football squad continued its preseason workouts Sunday afternoon and Monday morning on the Hunt and Tucker practice fields.  Sunday’s practice was conducted for two and a half hours in full pads while Monday morning’s session was in uppers only and lasted for two hours and 15 minutes.

Both sessions featured two pass skeletons and three team periods.  Sunday’s team periods consisted of two “thud” periods and a live scrimmage with third down situations.  On Monday, the team concentrated on base down and distances for two periods and worked on third down situations for the third.  Monday also featured a crossover period in which the tight ends and running backs took on linebackers in pass protection while the wide receivers and defensive backs competed in stalk block drills.

Special teams continued its work as well, drilling on kickoff coverage, kickoff returns, punt protection, punt returns, PATs and field goals throughout both days.

In attendance at the last two practice sessions has been Jim McNally, a former offensive line coach for the Cincinnati Bengals, Carolina Panthers, New York Giants and Buffalo Bills.  “It’s been an honor to have Coach McNally here and observe our practices for the past two days,” stated head coach Pete Lembo.  “He is widely considered to be one of the greatest offensive line coaches of all-time.  Jim and (Elon offensive line coach) John Strollo have been close friends for many years.”

On Sunday, Lembo thought that Nolan Ward and Andre Campbell stood out on the defensive side of the ball. 

“Nolan made an incredible, diving interception off a Scott Riddle pass on the first play of our first team period,” said Lembo.  "Andre Campbell had another solid practice on Sunday and recorded a sack as well as another tackle for a loss in the team period.”

Offensively, Lembo singled out A.J. Harris and Lance Camp for their receiving performance during the pass skeleton period, noting that they each hauled in some big catches.  On what Lembo called a “critical play,” receiver Aaron Mellette threw a key block to spring running back Jamal Shuman for a first down run on a third down play.  During the team period, Lembo thought that freshmen receivers Rasaun Rorie and Drew Turner stood out and made some nice grabs.

During Monday’s workout, Lembo again singled out Campbell, saying, “Andre continued to give outstanding effort on Monday morning as did nose guard Eric Ludwig.”

Sophomore linebacker Zach Henderson was recognized for his solid play while Walker White blocked a field goal at the end of practice, providing a huge lift to the defensive unit.

Rorie was also recognized as Lembo was pleased with the progress that the freshman has made over the first week of workouts.

The Phoenix gets back on the field for a 7:30 p.m. practice on Monday night.  During that session, Lembo said the team will participate in a short live scrimmage.  Elon will be off of the practice fields on Tuesday, but check back to elonphoenix.com for an interview with defensive coordinator Jay Bateman.

 

Sat., Aug. 15 – 7:30 p.m. – Hunt/Tucker Fields 

ELON, N.C. – We had another very good session tonight under the lights on Hunt Field. A handful of players returned to duty tonight after missing a few practices, which was a big help to the continuity and flow of the session. The players' morale remains very high even though we are at the point of preseason camp where soreness and long days can take their toll.

We went in uppers again tonight because the players have shown me that they can go hard and stay off the ground in team periods where we dictate "thud" tempo - full speed and contact up front, but no live tackling or cut blocks. We had three team periods tonight - one featuring base down and distances, one in the red zone and the last one where we moved the ball. All three segments were in "thud" mode.

A number of players on both sides of the ball made impressive plays tonight in the team periods. Red-shirt freshman Aaron Mellette continues to impress with his physical ability, but also his work ethic and drive to improve. His teammates are clearly gaining confidence in him, as is the coaching staff. Freshman receiver Jeremy Peterson is also picking up the system quickly and is making plays under pressure. Jeremy has a super attitude and a great motor. Tight end Andre Labinowicz had one of his best practices tonight.

On defense, tackle David Hunt stood out tonight. He made some plays stopping the run and was effective rushing the passer. Andre Campbell also had some pressures on our QB's tonight. Linebackers Joshua Jones, Brandon Wiggins and freshman Jordan Jones made plays to stop drives by the offense in the final team period. Jordan Jones took the ball away from receiver Darrius McQueen for an impressive interception to end the period.

In addition to the team periods, we had two pass skeletons and ample time for individual work by position. Special teams worked on punt protection and coverage, kick off return and PAT/field goal tonight. Red-shirt freshman kicker Adam Shreiner hit a 40-yard field goal to finish the practice session.

The staff will be in early Sunday morning to review the video before meetings begin with the players shortly thereafter. We will be back out on the practice field on Sunday afternoon in full pads.

Pete Lembo, Head Football Coach

  

Sat., Aug 15 – 8:00 a.m. – Hunt/Tucker Fields

ELON, N.C. – Saturday marked the first two-a-day session for the Elon Phoenix football team which took to the field for the first of two practices at 8:00 a.m. on the Hunt and Tucker practice fields.  The second practice will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday night at the same location.  The morning’s action lasted for two hours and 15 minutes.

The Phoenix drilled with two pass skeletons, an inside run period which featured the offense against the defense and one-on-one routes with the wide receivers vs. the defensive backs.  During two team periods, the Phoenix worked on third down situations as well as base down and distance stages.  Elon’s special teams units practiced kickoff returns, PATs and field goals.

Head coach Pete Lembo thought the Phoenix opened the early practice sluggishly, but rebounded by the end of the day’s first session, stating, “Once we got into the meat of practice things quickly became pretty competitive.”

Speaking of the kickoff return unit, Lembo said, “It’s good to see that we have a basic understanding of the concepts and a foundation to build on from our work in the spring.”

Younger players have continued to impress the coaching staff this fall.  “One of those younger guys is offensive tackle Justin Ward.  He’s really improved his technique this preseason,” mentioned Lembo.

Lembo also spoke about senior offensive tackle Chris Werden, noting, “He is having a good preseason.  He has been very detail-oriented and is beginning to take a leadership role.”

Senior defensive lineman Andre Campbell has also had a successful camp as Lembo said, “Andre has also been very productive so far.  He has just shown up, bringing his lunch pail to work every day, and doing what his coaches ask him to do.”

Finally, Lembo referenced junior wide receiver Lance Camp.  Of Camp, Lembo stated, “He had a consistent spring and has continued to look very strong during the preseason.”

After tonight’s 7:30 p.m. practice, the Phoenix heads back to the Hunt and Tucker practice fields for a single practice session at 2:15 p.m. on Sunday and two more practices on Monday (8:00 a.m. and 7:30 p.m.).  All practices are open to the public.

 

Fri., Aug. 14 – 2:15 p.m. – Hunt/Tucker Fields

ELON, N.C. – On the practice field for the sixth practice session of the preseason, the Elon Phoenix football squad practiced in full pads for the second time on Friday.  The afternoon practice also was the first in which the Phoenix was allowed to work some scrimmaging into the team’s workouts.

After individual drills and installation on both sides of the ball, Elon worked through two pass skeleton periods before tackling three team periods – the last of which was a short move the ball scrimmage.

The Phoenix special teams units drilled on kickoff coverage, punt protection, PATs and field goals.

Head coach Pete Lembo was pleased with the play of his quarterback and wide receivers during Friday’s two and a half hour practice.  "Scott Riddle had another good day.  He seems to be taking more control of the offense and is more confident in his decision-making.  He just seems very relaxed out there.”

"Terrell Hudgins is nursing a tender hamstring, but Sean Jeffcoat, Lance Camp and Aaron Mellette have really stepped up and made plays for the receiving corps.  I’m very pleased with the effort and ability that they’ve been displaying.”

Lembo went on to mention that Riddle completed deep balls to all three wide outs during Friday’s action.

"Jamal Shuman had another good day at tailback and is catching the ball well,” added Lembo.  “Back-up fullback Thonda Taylor is making progress as well.”

Lembo has also been pleased with the play on the defensive side of the ball, noting that both the offense and defense have stepped up and made plays and neither has yet to dominate the other.

“I’ve been pleased with linebacker Travis Greene who missed all of 2008 with a broken wrist,” stated Lembo.  “You can tell that he’s anxious to get back out there.  Red-shirt freshman defensive end Olufemi Lamikanra is really playing well.  He has played physical and well against both the run and rushing the passer.”

Elon’s Saturday practice schedule at the Hunt and Tucker practice fields will feature two sessions, the first two-a-day of the preseason.  The first session begins at 8 a.m. with the second practice starting at 7:30 p.m.  All practices are open to the public.

 

Thurs., Aug. 13 – 2:15 p.m. – Hunt/Tucker Fields

ELON, N.C. – Every Thursday during Elon football’s preseason camp we will sit down with Phoenix players to get their perspective on how camp is progressing and their thoughts on the upcoming season.  This week we spoke with offensive linemen Corey O’Shea and Jeff Allen.  The Phoenix hits the Hunt and Tucker practice fields again on Friday afternoon at 2:15 p.m.

This is the fourth camp for both of you.  How does this camp compare to the past three?  Is camp easier for you now than in the past?

CO: The aches and pains of four camps are starting to add up.  They last a little longer, but you just put your head down and push through it.  Having been through camp, you have an idea that it’s going to be hard and physically demanding.  The mental aspect is big.  You know coming in that the mental side of things – watching film, the meetings – will be a bigger thing than you do when you’re a freshman.

JA: This year’s definitely a lot cooler outside so far.  It seems like we’ve been transitioning a lot better and things have been going much smoother because we have a veteran team.  We’ve been getting better work in.  Film review is mostly about technique and you can really critique yourself better.

For you, is camp more of a thing to get in game shape or is it to work on techniques?

CO: So many of the guys stay around in the summer so we’re in shape.  Camp is much more about the technique stuff – how you block this guy, finding your footwork, getting your timing down.

JA: I was here this summer so I’m in shape.  Camp let’s us work on the little things.

How has camp gone so far?

CO: The fact that we’re an older team has allowed us to do a lot more tweaking to make everything more efficient.  The majority of us know the offense, we know what we’re doing.  Now we’re focused on whether can we make it quicker and faster.  We’re leaps and bounds ahead of where we were last year.

JA: Everyone has the motivation and sense of urgency.  We know we can do some good things this year.  People are getting after it and are focused.

What are your personal goals for the season?

CO: I really want to meld with the other four offensive linemen.  We have a chance to be a really special group.

JA: I want to look to make the all-conference team this year.  As a team, we want to get in the playoffs and get a ring.

For the average fan, how can they judge the performance of the offensive line?

CO: The less they hear about us the better.  The only time our name is ever called is on penalties or if we allow a sack.  If they don’t know who we are then we’re doing a good job. 

 

Wed., Aug. 12 – 8:00 a.m. – Hunt/Tucker Fields

ELON, N.C. – Following the fall’s fourth practice, this time in cooler, wetter weather on Wednesday morning, the Elon Phoenix football squad held its annual media day in the Woods Center at Rhodes Stadium.  The practice session lasted for a little more than two and a half hours on the Hunt and Tucker practice fields with the Phoenix work out in helmets and shoulder pads for the first time this preseason.

Numerous local media outlets in attendance for interviews with coach Pete Lembo, defensive back Walker White, linebacker Joshua Jones, offensive lineman David Harrison, wide receiver Terrell Hudgins and quarterback Scott Riddle.

During his interviews, Lembo talked a little about keeping a balance in practice between the veterans and the newcomers.  “We’re trying to continue to push our veterans, but at the same time, not to leave the younger players behind.  You don’t want to move too far ahead too fast.  The veteran guys can still get a little more detail from what we’re doing.”

When asked about his veteran squad Lembo added, “We have a lot of familiar faces on both sides of the ball. The challenge is for them to raise their level of play to an all-conference level.”

One of the most open battles in camp this fall will be for the punting and placekicking duties.  Elon has to replace two standouts at those positions and is turning to unproven talent at those spots.  So far, though, Lembo has been pleased with what he’s seen. 

“We’ve gotten a really good effort from Adam Shreiner, Andy Leffler and Eric Carstens.  Freshman Kenton Beal has also come in and performed well.  We’ve got healthy competition and the guys are giving us everything they’ve got.”

As for the day’s practice session, the team went for three very balanced periods on Wednesday.  The team went through two-person skeleton drills, one-on-one routes with the wide receivers and defensive backs and held a special teams period which consisted of punt protection, punt return, PAT and field goal work.

Some younger players who may not be household names have pleased the coaching staff with their play so far this fall. 

“I’m very pleased about some of our younger guys who have been in the program for a year or two who are starting to make their presence felt,” stated Lembo.

The head coach specifically mentioned quarterback Thomas Wilson, nose guard Khirey Walker, outside linebacker Dale Riley  and defensive back Jonathan Conner.

Lembo has also been pleased with the play of running back Jamal Shuman, saying that he is “catching the ball better than he did last fall or last spring.”

The Phoenix returns to the Hunt and Tucker practice fields for practice number five at 2:15 p.m. on Thursday afternoon.  All practice sessions are open to the public.

 

Tues., Aug. 11 – 2:15 p.m. – Hunt/Tucker Fields

ELON, N.C. -- Every Tuesday during the preseason, we will sit down with one of the Elon Phoenix football coaches for their take on camp, the upcoming season and what players fans should be watching this fall.  In our debut, we sit down with one of the new faces on the staff, Elon alum and wide receivers coach Keith Gaither.  

  

Mon., Aug. 10 – 2:15 p.m. – Hunt/Tucker Fields

The Elon football team took the field for the second day of preseason workouts under a scorching sun and nearly triple-digit temperatures on Monday afternoon. Per NCAA rules, the Phoenix worked out in helmets for the second straight day and was on the field for about two and a half hours.
 
Day two again featured an emphasis on position specific techniques and fundamentals. Head coach Pete Lembo and his staff continued the installation of schemes on offense, defense and special teams.
 
“We weren’t as crisp as yesterday,” Lembo commented. “As installation builds it becomes mentally taxing on young players. There tend to be more mental mistakes which is to be expected.”
 
The practice included had three team periods of offense against the defense, which were run at a slower tempo than normal due to the “just helmets” rule. The wide receivers again competed against the defensive backs, testing various one-on-one routes. Elon ran two pass skeleton segments and special teams continued to work on punt protection and PAT/field goal protection.
 
Being that the Phoenix return 18 starters from last year, Lembo has noticed a new twist to preseason practice this season. “A few years ago, everyone on the field was starting at the same level,” Lembo explained. “We now have a mix of experience and youth which can make for a balancing act as a coach. You want to get more sophisticated with your installation for your veterans without leaving your younger guys behind.”
 
Lembo was impressed with sophomore tailbacks Jamal Shuman and A.J. Harris who both had productive runs during the practice session. He also mentioned the strong performances of sophomore linebacker Zack Henderson, sophomore nose guard Khiry Walker and senior defensive end Jordan Daniel.
 
Elon will be in helmets and shoulder pads for the first time tomorrow during its 2:15 p.m. practice at Hunt/Tucker Fields.

 

Sun., Aug. 9 – 7:30 p.m. – Hunt/Tucker Fields

Elon head football coach Pete Lembo welcomed 90 active players to the first preseason practice of the 2009 season on Sunday evening. Elon returns 36 lettermen, including 18 starters, from a 2008 squad that posted an overall record of 8-4 and a 6-2 tally in the Southern Conference. The Phoenix has been rated in the top-15 nationally by several preseason publications.

Sunday was the first of 29 practices that will take place prior to Elon's season-opener against Davidson on September 5 at 7 p.m. in Rhodes Stadium. The Phoenix will practice once in the morning or afternoon each day this week before taking the field twice next Saturday.  

The day began at 7 a.m. with conditioning tests. Lembo and his staff were pleased with the results as 85 of the 90 players passed the 300-yard shuttle test. After meetings throughout the day, the evening practice ran about two hours and was the first of five NCAA-mandated acclimation days, requiring the players to work out in helmets only for the first two sessions.
 
The squad spent a lot of time on fundamentals, including two pass skeleton periods and one-on-one routes with the wide receivers and defensive backs. On special teams, the team focused on PAT/field goal protection, PAT/field goal block and installed punt protection.
 
Overall it was a good first day for the 2009 Phoenix. “We were pleased to see that some of the the younger players really progressed over the summer,” commented Lembo. “They looked more mature out there which is something you always hope for with each passing semester.
 
“We also saw strong execution by our first and second string, with no procedural penalties or errant shotgun starts, which always allows practice to run more smoothly.”
 
Lembo was equally impressed with his newcomers, “We have a really athletic freshman class,” he stated. “A number of those guys really stood out physically when they got reps in practice.”
 
Preseason preparations continue on Monday with practice beginning at 2:15 p.m.