Northwestern University Athletics
Camp Kenosha: Day Eight
8/18/2004 12:00:00 AM | Football
Aug. 18, 2004
KENOSHA, Wis. -- After holding one practice Tuesday at Carthage College, Northwestern returned to its UW-Parkside facilities on Wednesday, and began the day with a two-hour 8 a.m. practice.
After a tough day Tuesday, the Wildcat offense responded with a spirited effort. One of the morning highlights was a crushing downfield block by offensive guard Matt Ulrich -- a hit that energized the NU offense.
"It was a better day for the offense, but we still have a ways to go," says NU Head Coach Randy Walker. "I'm glad we have a couple more weeks to get this football team where it needs to be. We're going in the right direction, though."
One of those offensive players that NU is counting on for leadership this season, especially among the wide receivers, is Mark Philmore. The true junior from Reynoldsburg, Ohio, missed part of the 2003 season with a knee injury, but returned in time to help the Wildcats in the Motor City Bowl. Philmore is the Wildcats' top returning receiver.
NUsports.com chatted with Philmore after practice on Wednesday to talk about his health and the upcoming season.
NUsports.com: First, how's it feel to be back -- 100 percent healthy?
Philmore: It feels great -- I have no complaints with my health right now. The athletic trainers did their job and I followed the rehabilitation program to a tee, and we took care of what I needed to.
NUsports.com: With a new position coach this year, what kind of things has Coach McGee been emphasizing with the receivers?
Philmore: Coach McGee has a great mind for the game of football. With him and Coach Dunbar (offensive coordinator) collaborating a lot in the passing game, we think we can take our offense to the next level. We've proven that we can be a good rushing team; now we have to get our passing game on par with the rushing.
NUsports.com: How do you feel the receivers are progressing during camp, and have you been surprised with the play of any of your teammates?
Philmore: A lot of guys are doing some good things, but we still have a long way to go. We're still trying to become more consistent as a group. Once we gain that consistency, we are going to help this football team.
NUsports.com: What do you think of NU's defense this year, and in particular, the secondary?
Philmore: It's never fun playing against your own secondary -- they know you pretty well. But they're having a good camp. I love them to death, and I think they give us a good look out there.
NUsports.com: Do you have any goals as a punt returner this year?
Philmore: I never disclose any personal goals, but if our return unit does its job, I think we can have a great year returning punts.
