A sun-splashed afternoon greeted the University at Buffalo football team Friday on the turf at UB Stadium as preparations continued for the 2007 football season.
Each day brings signs that the football season is getting closer and closer, today’s sign was the presence of the play clocks back on the field. When the 11-on-11 session began, the play clocks were turned on, creating more of a sense of urgency for the offense to get in and out of the huddle.
The first-team offense moved the ball 51 yards on a drive that was capped off by a 37-yard Gerry McGroatry field goal. The highlight of the drive was a 15-yard reception by Robert Yealu which ended with Yealu running over a defensive back. Another scoring drive, lead by Zack Ingle, ended with an AJ Principe 49-yard field goal. On that drive, freshman receiver Marcus Rivers made a 12-yard catch to keep the drive alive.
During today’s special teams’ session, the Bulls went through full 11-on-11 kickoff coverage and return work. One change that fans will definitely notice this season is a rule change that moves kickoffs back from the 35-yard line to the 30-yard line. That change will mean fewer kickoffs will result in touchbacks and even more importance will be placed on the return game and kick coverage.
Quarterback Drew Willy had a nice day today, during the 7-on-7’s he found Naaman Roosevelt twice for touchdowns. Meanwhile, the defense was unable to create any turnovers today, but Trevor Scott continued to show a remarkable ability to get to the quarterback, recording two would-be sacks. LaRon Haymore and Kareem Byrom also got to the quarterback this afternoon and Ollice Ervin had another nice day.
Saturday the Bulls will return to UB Stadium as they continue to work toward the August 30 curtain-raiser at Rutgers.
