Southern Illinoise University Athletics
Saluki Football camp notebook -- Day Nine
08/17/2015 | 12:00:00 | Football
By John Lock
SIUSalukis.com
1. The Salukis went through their second two-a-day today, practicing in the morning in Saluki Stadium and the afternoon on the grass fields just south of the stadium. The last two-a-day will be on Wednesday.
2. Head coach Dale Lennon reminded the players after the first practice of the importance to maintain focus and energy through every play. It's easy to get up for the first week, and it will be easy to be up for the first game week. Which teams will be able to stay focused in the interim two weeks? In the jam-packed Missouri Valley Football Conference--where all 10 teams are receiving top-25 votes--that could be the difference in a game.
3. Aaron Stanton and Matt McIntosh returned to practice today. Both were held out of Saturday's scrimmage for minor injuries.
4. The defense has shown an ability to clamp down on drives and force field goals. When the offense seems to start rolling and get a couple first downs, the defense has responded and forced long field goals--which provided the opportunity for Austin Johnson to impress with made 49- and 50-yard field goals in Saturday's scrimmage.
5. The defense is also proving that a unit takes the shape of its leader. New defensive coordinator David Elson is probably the most animated coach during practice (except for maybe Larry Warner), and the entire defense, including the sideline, is incredibly loud and engaged throughout any offense vs. defense drill.
6. After his three-touchdown, zero-interception performance in Saturday's scrimmage, it's no surprised that Mark Iannotti continues to get all the reps with the first-team offense. He looks very comfortable and confident in his second season in the offense.
7. Connor Iwema and Iannotti have a clear chemistry together. Last year, Iannotti made a point to look for MyCole Pruitt, and this year that receiver just might be Iwema. Redshirt freshman receiver Darrell James caught a touchdown in Saturday's scrimmage and hauled in several more passes today. He looks like a rookie receiver ready to make an impact.
8. The Saluki Fan Fest is set for August 27. The event has been a big hit in past years and is a great event for the whole family. Free ice cream, schedule posters, autographs and more, starting at 6 p.m. in Saluki Stadium. Read more here.
