Thursday was the final spring practice for the JMU DUKES Football team, and the goals were simple, execute the install that has been taught the last several weeks, and not get anyone hurt. The DUKES didn’t practice in pads and there was very little contact on a sunny, but very windy day in the valley.

The shuffle (position cross training) up front on the offensive line continued, not out of necessity, but out of the desire to build depth that will keep this year’s offense operating at the highest of level possible. The group of “Offenders” up front have shown promise all spring, drawing praise from both Offensive Coordinator Donnie Kirkpatrick and Head Coach Mike Houston. The more time they spend with new Offensive Line Coach Steve Shankweiler, their growth should continue to trend upward. 

Young Wide Receivers Jake Brown and Daniel Adu produced two of the highlights of the afternoon, both in tight coverage by Jimmy Moreland. Brown’s one handed grab along the sideline brought out the cheers from his offensive counterparts. Jimmy Moreland has made his fair share of plays this spring, and fans should expect that to continue this fall. Linebacker Tab Patrick produced an interception for the defense in pass coverage.

I’ve written about the play thus far of Ron’Dell Carter and John Daka on the defensive line, but another player to watch at the spring game is #64 Mike Green. The 6’2 sophomore tips the scale at 277 pounds, has grown a lot this spring and the exciting thing is the upside is tremendous. When it’s all said and done, that might be an understatement.  

Roughly 18 players that fans will see in the fall did not practice on Thursday and most likely, many of them will not see action on Saturday. If you’re going the spring game, pay attention to the names in the program, many of these guys could play support roles for another successful season.

The scoring system, which will be explained on Saturday, gives the defense and offense several different ways to score points. For guys who were on this team last year, the big score will be at the end of the day when CAA Championship rings are handed out. Gates open at Noon, the game starts at 1pm. Find out about tailgating and parking information at www.jmusports.com

If you’re in the Harrisonburg area and can’t make it, hear the game on W-H-B-G, 101.3 FM/ 1360 AM.