Day 4: Football Goes Full Pads in a Strong Showing
Head Coach Darrell Hazell called Day 4 “The best practice yet.” Kent State football players were in full pads for the first time Monday morning and three officials were on hand for game scenarios.
In his recent MAC Football Spring Preview, Parker Perry of HustleBelt.com says: “Darrell Hazell quietly has his program to the point where it will be realistically competing for its best season in program history.”
KentStateSports.com talked after practice with coach Hazell, wide receivers coach Thad Jemison and wide receiver Tyshon Goode (Syracuse, N.Y.). Entering his senior season, Goode ranks fourth among Kent State’s career leaders in receptions (136) and receiving yards (1,814). He also ranks sixth in touchdown catches (12).
Goode is one of three returning receivers to have started at least six games. Seniors Eric Adeyemi (Maimi, Fla.) and Matt Hurdle (Richmond, Va.) each gained valuable playing experience last season. After practice, Adeyemi talked about "working on the little things." He mentioned prior discussions with the receiver group about three touchdowns that could have been scored last season if receivers had made blocks on safeties. Also look for sophomore Chris Humphrey (Solon, Ohio) to make some noise at receiver in 2012. A quarterback in high school, Humphrey made the switch last summer and has made significant strides since.
Kent State's Spring Game is set for April 21. Season tickets are on sale now. Call 330-672-2244.
