CLEVELAND - Defense ruled the day, as the No. 24 Delta State University football team scrimmaged for the first time on Sunday at Parker Field-McCool Stadium. Coach Ron Roberts put the Statesmen through a 105-play scrimmage in 102 degree heat, including a heat index approaching 114 degrees.
"The defense came to play today, but the offense made some great strides as the afternoon wore on," Roberts stated. "We did a good job of forcing turnovers early, but the offense made some great adjustments late and punched the ball in the end zone on several drives."
As the two-and-a-half hour scrimmage got underway, it was evident early that the defense had an extra gear that the offense had yet to find. On the first 10 possessions of the scrimmage, the Statesmen defense forced six turnovers.
"We had great execution early," added Pete Golding, DSU defensive coordinator. "The secondary made some great reads and was able to force a few bad throws. Overall, I'm very pleased with the way we played today."
Despite a rocky start, the offense found some rhythm during the second half of Sunday's scrimmage thanks to running of junior back
Clint Farrar and the hands of
Tim Smith.
"
did the little things up front to create some space, and
Tim Smith hauled in some tough catches and made some key plays after the catch."
Not to be lost in Sunday's first scrimmage of the fall, is the fact that the green-and-white have only been in camp for a week. While mistakes were made, the effort was unquestionably there.
"We didn't execute a 110 percent like we wanted to, but you can't question the heart these kids have," Roberts added. "You're battling heat, sweat, dehydration and the guy on the other side of the ball. It was a solid day and it's been a good first week."
"I could name 30 more, but those guys gave a little extra on the field Sunday," Roberts concluded.
The Statesmen will begin regular season practices this week, as Delta State officially opens for classes on Monday. Roberts and the team will take Monday off and will return to the field on Tuesday at 3 p.m. for their next session. All practices are open to the public.
