Aggie Football Team Runs Through First Practice

Aggie Football Team Runs Through First Practice

99 players report to field for first day

Utah State head coach Mick Dennehy and his staff got their first chance of the fall to see their players on the field as the Aggies ran through a two-hour practice Aug. 4. In all, 99 players reported to the field for the first workout of the year.

"It is great to get going again," Dennehy said. "I think the anticipation of having the independent gig behind us and having something to play for has gotten everybody's attention. I think everybody's interest is perked. Just from that standpoint it is exciting. I think we all get excited at the start of a new year. Everything is clean and everything is undefeated."

The wide receivers drew the coaches' attention, especially junior college transfer Raymond Hicks and sophomore Jerome Eason.

"I really like our receivers," Dennehy said. "I like their work ethic. I like their attitude. I think they are a group that is a highly motivated group. I think we have got some guys that will push one another for playing time. I think we have got some depth there."

With 99 players, including 44 returning lettermen, on the field, Dennehy believes they have caught up in retention of players and can rely on the veteran players this season.

"We are not really anticipating having to rely on a lot of young players," he said. "I think from this point on, we have kind of reached a point where we can do it the right way. Do it the normal way. Bring those guys in slowly and redshirt them and get them used to college before we throw them to the wolves."

The Aggies will continue one-a-day practices through Aug. 8 before holding the first two-a-day workout on Aug. 9.

Season tickets are available online at www.UtahStateAggies.com, by calling (435) 797-0305 or 1-888-U-State-1, or at the ticket office in the Dee Glen Smith Spectrum.

Utah State opens its season at Utah Thursday, August 28.