University of Richmond Athletics
Spider Football Practice Report No. 5
UNIVERSITY OF RICHMOND, Va. – The University of Richmond Spiders football team was back at practice on Friday morning at Robin Stadium.
The Spiders, running in full pads for the first time in training camp, practiced for two hours on a hot, humid morning in Richmond. For the fifth-straight day, Richmond continued to focus on 1st and 2nd down installation, as well as base fundamentals and techniques.
Early in practice, Richmond worked on punting and punt returning, with both David Broadus and Joe Gulli, Jr. delivering with some quality punts. On the return team, Ben Edwards, Wayne Pettus and Dominique Miller all fielded punts, looking sharp.
In the 11-on-11 drills, the defense looked great, coming up with back-to-back turnovers against the first-team offense. LB Aaron Roane came up with a fumble recovery for a touchdown that was followed by a tremendous play by DB Justin Grant.
On play-action, QB Michael Strauss looked deep down the right sideline for WR Stephen Barnette. Playing safety, Grant had a great read on the ball, leaping in the air for a terrific interception, earning praise from Coach Rocco.
Later in practice, DB David Jones made a nice play to break-up a pass intended for WR Reggie Diggs, while sophomore DB Jack Rosenblum made a diving play to break up a pass.
Playing against his fellow freshmen and rookies, QB Kyle Lauletta had a nice day, completing three passes to WR Brian Brown.
The Richmond Spiders football team will be back on Robins Stadium for practice on both Saturday and Sunday. Both days practices are scheduled to start at 9:45 a.m.
Post-Practice Quotes
"It was hot and we were in full pads today for the first time. I thought that they responded as the practice went on and it was a pretty physical practice out here today. We are still looking for a running back to step up. I think we have three guys that have been taking turns doing some good things but no one has taken ownership of that position right now. I think our wide receivers continue to flash and play well. And on defense, we are pleased with the play of our defensive front.”
-- Head Coach Danny Rocco
“We’re out here just trying to get better. We know we are going to have to play in these hot and humid circumstances sometimes. Coach Rocco made a point on listening and responding and that’s what we tried to do today.”
-- DB Justin Grant