Northwestern University Athletics
Spring Practice: Day Nine
4/13/2009 12:00:00 AM | Football
April 13, 2009
EVANSTON, Ill. -- Cool temperatures and light rain showers forced Northwestern to hold Monday morning's practice indoors as the Wildcats began their third week of spring drills.
The 'Cats, who practiced in helmets, shoulder pads and shorts, started their day with longer position group meetings as they reviewed tape from Saturday's scrimmage. Afterwards, head coach Pat Fitzgerald directed the 'Cats through a brisk 15-period practice.
One position group that Wildcat fans have a strong interest in this offseason is wide receiver. After graduating the most productive class of wideouts in school history -- four players (Ross Lane, Eric Peterman, Rasheed Ward and Jeff Yarbrough) who combined for 5,569 yards and 31 TD's -- there will be plenty of new names catching the football this fall for the 'Cats.
Following practice, NUsports.com chatted with wide receivers coach and passing game coordinator Kevin Johns to get an update on his unit and how they're progressing this spring.
"It's been exciting working this group this spring and a lot of fun," said Johns. "These guys come to practice, work hard and learn at least one new thing every day. Even though we're short on so-called experience, I don't feel like we're that inexperienced. A lot of these guys played last year -- they didn't play a ton -- but they are familiar with our offense."
One of the wideouts who is expected to play a key role for the 'Cats this fall is Andrew Brewer (Tulsa, Okla./Jenks), who has the most returning experience among NU's four senior receivers.
"Brew's been doing great," said Johns. "He's playing a new spot, too, moving outside after playing mostly inside. But he's been great. He can really help our younger guys with what's going to happen and what to look for when they're on the field."
The complete interview with Coach Johns is available by clicking on the All-Access page on NUsports.com.
SPRING NOTES:
After reviewing the tape from Saturday's first spring scrimmage, NU coach Pat Fitzgerald said: "It was a great teaching tool for our guys this morning. Although we have a lot of work ahead of us, I like our attitude and where we're at." ... A reminder to Wildcat fans that you have until Wednesday (April 15) to cast your vote for the new Illinois-Northwestern rivalry trophy. Fans can click here to vote for their choice for the new trophy ... Also, Wildcat fans can still register for the upcoming "Walk for Randy." It takes place at 9 a.m. on Saturday, April 25, just prior to NU's spring game at noon ... Northwestern's baseball team is taking on Notre Dame at 7:05 p.m. Wednesday (April 15) at U.S. Cellular Field. NU coach Pat Fitzgerald will be on hand and toss out a ceremonial first pitch.
