Bobcats underway with camp

Posted: Aug 6, 2012 6:11 PM by Q2 Sports
Updated: Aug 7, 2012 7:38 AM

BOZEMAN - The energy was good. The execution needs work.

That was Rob Ash's message to his sixth Montana State football team after the first full practice of fall camp Monday morning at the MSU Practice Fields.

"I told them afterward that I really liked their energy and enthusiasm," Ash said following the session, "but it was pretty sloppy. We didn't execute in the team period like we wanted. It was supposed to be a pursuit period and it got too physical for a no-pad practice. But I liked the spirit. It's a very energetic, determined group. We just have to focus on doing it the right way."

Ash's first impression of the newest Bobcats was positive. "It's not a very big group (of recruits)," he said, "but I like the way they pay attention and listen. Paying particular attention to the two (new) quarterbacks, I like their demeanor and knowledge of the game. It's different this year in that it's a small group in numbers and there aren't that many spots where a new player can contend for a job. I think most (new) freshmen will be able to redshirt. But I like what I see of them."

Third-year quarterback DeNarius McGhee was particularly impressed with the weapons surrounding him during the fall's first practice. "All those guys go out and make plays," he said through his trademark smile. "We've got plenty of guys that can make plays."

After beginning fall drills with a short walk-through Sunday that fulfilled the requirements of a practice because it came in helmets, the team dons shoulder pads Tuesday and Wednesday before practicing in full pads for the first time on Thursday. MSU is on the practice field again at 9:15 am Tuesday.

NOTES: The Bobcats also experienced a flurry of personnel issues as camp dawned. Freshmen Justin Pierson (running back) and Griffin Woodall (defensive lineman) informed Rob Ash of their decisions discontinue their college football careers... junior college offensive lineman Christian Williams (Glendale, Ariz.) is also injured and out indefinitely.