Back to Basics for the Broncos at Fall Camp
KALAMAZOO, Mich. - Individual drills were stressed during Tuesday's practice for the Broncos. Making sure that the players worked on the fundamentals and mastered the art of their position will hopefully turn into success on the field.
The full pads were back on again today and there was much hitting to go around throughout practice. Even during individual drills the receivers and defensive backs worked on getting off the line, jamming the receiver and most importantly tackling in open space.
"It all starts with technique," said head coach Bill Cubit. "That's why we work on the basic fundamentals of the game."
Junior cornerback Lewis Toler was under Cubit's watchful eye during this drill as Toler missed an open field tackle, Cubit asked for the play again. After making the tackle, both Toler and Cubit shared a moment that they believe in each other.
"He knows that I can go out there and make tackles," said Toler.
"I wanted to teach him to persevere," said Cubit. "Because there are going to be times this year when we face adversity."
Cubit continued to challenge during team drills to ensure that mental fatigue did not turn into mental errors on the field.
"As defensive backs we have to have high energy," said Toler, "because that feeds and fuels are defense."
During the final team drill, the defense surely stepped up in stopping the run and deflecting long passing plays. The offense did however show some consistency towards the end when quarterback Alex Carder hooked up with freshman receiver Daniel Braverman on a crossing route for a touchdown. The very next play, WMU showed off it's running ability as junior running back Dareyon Chance rattled off a touchdown right up the gut.
Even though two-a-days are in full swing, the coaches know the physical taxation that is put on their players during practices, but the willingness to push through the soreness and pain is what makes this team mentally tough.
"Their legs are dead and we all know that, but this is all about mental toughness," said Cubit. "This game is not for the weak-minded."
Make sure to show your support for the Broncos Wednesday night as it is fan appreciation night at Waldo Stadium. Practice will start at 7 p.m.
