Surprises at practice
August 5, 2008 by Mike CasazzaThere were a few that stood out this afternoon. First, a good one…
Nehlen, who had a triple-bypass June 10, showed up unexpectedly and welcomed numerous well-wishers, including Bill Stewart. The two chatted for about a third of the hour the media was allowed to observe.
I honestly didn’t expect to see tennis balls at football practice.
They were obviously there for a reason and one suspects it had something to do with that pitching machine and a drill for receivers.
It would seem you must be properly hydrated to stretch out at a Mountaineers practice. Also note Josh Jenkins (77) on the right.
Receivers Wes Lyons (right) and Bradley Starks (far left) are the first summer casualties. Lyons is again bugged by a knee — note the wrap on his left one — and Starks tweaked a hamstring. They alternated boxing on their knees with strength coaches and pulling weights the width of the field while seated.
Also of note, Ryan Stanchek again wore the red jersey and vows he is ready to practice. Linebacker Reed Williams wore a green jersey and continued to do everything but hit. Freshman D.J. Thomas arrived from Hargrave Military Academy and was immediately grouped with the running backs and slot receivers as Brandon Hogan remained with the cornerbacks.