Freshmen keep it from going stale

0 Comments | Gazette, The (Colorado Springs), Aug 7, 2008 | by Jake Schaller

Air Force football's Class of 2012 joined the rest of the team for the first time Wednesday, injecting some intensity and enthusiasm to the second of the day's two practice sessions.

Most of the freshmen served as scout team players, but there were approximately 15 who were mixed in with the varsity's first, second and third teams. Coach Troy Calhoun said those freshmen who work with the varsity could change daily.

He also said it was too early to say if one or more of the freshmen made a significant impression.

"It's all so brand new to them," Calhoun said. "Those guys, they've got so much going on right now, you can't jump to conclusions."

Among the freshmen who were intermixed with the varsity was quarterback Tim Jefferson, who started for the prep school last year. Jefferson ran plays with the third-team offense.

Thomas to have MRI

Junior strong safety Chris Thomas will have an MRI taken on his right knee today, Calhoun said.

Thomas, the Falcons' second-leading tackler and an honorable mention All-Mountain West Conference selection in 2007, injured the knee Tuesday during the drills. Thomas did not practice Wednesday, but he was on the field doing upperbody conditioning. He had a brace on his right knee but walked without a limp.

Thomas' injury is being called a minor sprain. Calhoun said the MRI is being taken as a precaution to "make sure we pinpoint exactly what's in there."

Etc.

Air Force moved sophomores Alexander Arndt and Blake Sherwood from the defensive line to the offensive line.... Senior starting fullback Todd Newell did not participate in afternoon practice because of a "bug," Calhoun said. He should be back in two days.... Air Force will practice this afternoon from 4 to 5:45. That will be the standard time for practices during the week for the rest of August as classes begin today. On Saturday morning the Falcons will work on special teams on the practice fields from 9 to 9:30 and then move to the stadium and work there until about 11:45.