Under cloudy skies with some light rain and temperatures in the mid-70s, Thursday was the coolest day thus far during fall camp for the University at Buffalo football team. The season begins three weeks from today for the Bulls when they visit the Scarlet Knights of Rutgers, who were recently voted 16th in the preseason coaches’ poll.
The Bulls typically run through two different periods of 11-on-11 drills, one at the beginning of practice and then one at the end of practice, after individual position work and special teams’ drills. During the early 11-on-11 period, Mario Henry got off to a quick start, gaining 24 yards on his first three carries.
During the second portion of 11-on-11, the Bulls were again joined on the field by officials. For the first time today, the Bulls worked on actual drives as a part of the 11-on-11 work. Prior to today, all 11-on-11 time was spent with predetermined down and distance situations.
On the first play of the first drive, James Starks drew the biggest reaction of the day with an ankle-breaking move he made while making a 12-yard run. That first drive by the first-team offense went five plays for 35 yards and three first downs before being stopped by the coaching staff.
Kyle Brey, making the move this season from fullback to tight end, came up with a couple of catches, including one nice effort in traffic. Ernest Jackson appeared to be the favorite target today as he made several receptions.
Among the players on the other side of the ball, Ollice Ervin had a very good day, while Chris Callahan found his way to the quarterback on more than one occasion. With Callahan playing opposite Trevor Scott, the Bulls could have two very dangerous defensive ends. Others on the defense who stood out today were Kareem Byrom and Mike Newton, both of whom recorded interceptions.
Buffalo returns to the field at UB Stadium on Friday as the Bulls continue preparations for the 2007 football season.
