Northwestern University Athletics
Northwestern Wraps Up Spring Practice No. Six
4/9/2008 12:00:00 AM | Football
April 9, 2008
EVANSTON, Ill. -- Northwestern returned to its FieldTurf practice field early Wednesday morning for spring practice number six. The Wildcats were dressed just in "shells" (helmets, shoulder pads and shorts) for this 20-period session.
With each additional spring practice, the Wildcats are getting more comfortable with their new coordinators and the evidence is showing up on the field.
"I felt we took a big step today," said head coach Pat Fitzgerald. "Yesterday wasn't what any of us wanted, but today, our leadership stepped forward and did a great job preparing us for a solid day. We need one more great practice (Thursday) before we scrimmage a bit on Saturday."
One of Northwestern's leaders on offense is running back Tyrell Sutton, who begins his final season third on the Wildcats' all-time rushing list with 2,996 yards. He also is one of three players on this year's team with 100-plus career receptions (114). Due to an injury, Sutton played in only five full games last season, but is enjoying a solid spring and is looking to help spearhead the offensive attack in 2008.
After practice, Sutton, who is the Big Ten's active leading rusher, talked to NUsports.com about the changes to the offense under offensive coordinator Mick McCall, how he is using the spring to be a leader for the younger running backs, what the offense is looking to accomplish leading up to Saturday's scrimmage and other topics.
Watch Sutton's interview with NUsports.com
PRACTICE NOTES:
• The Wildcats will practice in full pads Thursday (7:30 a.m.) for spring practice number seven.
• This Friday and Saturday, several local high school coaches will be taking part in the Wildcats' annual coaches' clinic.
