Fall Football Camp – Day Nine Notes – Ohio State Buckeyes
8/18/1999 12:00:00 AM | Football
Aug. 18, 1999
COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Buckeyes scrimmaged Tuesday evening in Ohio Stadium and, although they were in Buckeye gear Wednesday morning, the feeling from the players was a hard workout was in store. Not the case. The coaches concentrated on intensive special teams work, 7-on-7 drills and lots of lecture and education on fundamentals and game planning, with a hint of Miami Hurricane history just for good measure. The afternoon workout, more hitting and team drills. The day was spectacular: sunshine and in the 70s.
Today’s Quotes
Head Coach John Cooper
“Last night we had a scrimmage, so this morning was a light practice for us. I felt very good about how everyone performed in the scrimmage and I think we are right on schedule. Camp is still going very well.
“The players have been very attentive. We have never had a problem with keeping their attention this year at camp. They are still learning plays, but they have done very well.
“Our biggest problem this camp is the players are getting banged up. Our offensive line has really gotten hit with the bumps and bruises. Tyson Walter’s had back surgery (in the offseason). Kurt Murphy (bruised shoulder) got hurt yesterday and will be out through this week. Ben Gilbert also has had some recurring injuries this camp, so we have kept him out too.”
Fr. SS Donnie Nickey
On fall camp…
“Camp is going all right. Obviously we got through three a-days, and now it’s a little slower, we have two practices now but they’re two longer practices. It’s the same amount of time, but it’s more game preparation instead of the physical training part of it.”
On Tuesday’s scrimmage…
“The scrimmage went pretty well. I think we need to step the intensity up on the defense.”
On the fight for the starting strong safety position…
“It’s going well. I need to get my head in the game more, I need to watch more film and just basically get to know the defense better.”
Jr. CB David Mitchell
Sizing up his secondary teammates…
“Ahmed Plummer is a technician, he’s always in the right place at the right time. He always gets his feet and his hips set right. Gary Berry’s an athlete. He’s fast and he knows the defense because he’s been here for three years. He’s a veteran. Nate Clements, a new guy, is real fast and strong. He’s going to be a real good player. Donnie Nickey gives a lot of effort. He comes up hard and catches on real quick. Percy King’s a hard hitter. He’s real fast and big, and knows the defense well. Michael Doss looks real good. He’s going to be like Damon Moore down the line.”
On fall camp…
“Camp is going pretty well for me so far. I’m fighting for a starting position, but I’m probably going to be a nickel back. I played in the scrimmage, but I missed a few tackles.”
Jr. LG Matt Gurr
“Camp is going pretty well for me. I have gotten this far through camp without the usual bumps and bruises. I have been very fortunate this year. We have a couple guys banged up, but nothing serious. They should be back very soon.”
On hitting teammates every day…
“I actually want some new meat. We have gone up against the same guys for a while now, so I am ready to go up against some different guys.”
Jr. SE Vanness Provitt
“After coming off some major injuries, mentally and physically I feel comfortable this year. The coaches have really responded to my playing. They like what they are seeing and that completely helps me in my confidence.
“I think my height really helps me. Being 6-3 and weighing 230 pounds, I have a size factor over the smaller receivers. I also have worked on my speed, so I think both will help me in the battle for a starting position.”
-GO BUCKS!-
