Wake Forest Athletics
Wake Forest Football Practice Report #10
8/18/2006 12:00:00 AM | Football
Aug. 18, 2006
Today's Practice (#10): Players wore shells for both the morning and evening practices. Today was the team's third day of two-a-day practices this week.
Weather: 83 degrees and sunny.
Practice Agenda: With the players just in shells, the Deacs worked mostly on positional group work ... The team finished the morning practice with a full 11-on-11 drill ... QB Riley Skinner hooked up with WR Chip Brinkman on a 40-yard pass completion down the left side line ... Skinner made the throw on the run, while Brinkman leapt to haul in the pass over the defender.
Snapshot: After having a breakout season as a redshirt freshman in 2005, CB Alphonso Smith is looking to be the Demon Deacons' big play guy once again this fall.
Smith, who was one of only three defenders to start all 11 games last season, registered a variety of stats that aren't normally seen from a cornerback. The Pohokee, Fla., native was second on the team in tackles for loss with eight and also tallied two sacks, two blocked punts and a forced fumble.
As for the traditional defensive back stat categories, Smith was exceptional in that regard as well. He recorded nine pass break-ups and three interceptions, one of which he returned for a touchdown.
"I try to be a big play guy. That's the name of the game--make plays and help the team win," said Smith. "I pay attention in the film room, so I can get an edge on other players."
Smith will have plenty of opportunities to make big plays this fall, including ones with the ball in his hands, as he is penciled in to start at kick returner.
"I just try to help the team out anyway possible. As long as we win and I help make us better, I'm happy," said Smith.
Injury Report: DE Matt Robinson (knee), OL Matthew Brim (shoulder), OL Boomer Peterson (concussion) and TE Dan Callahan (concussion) did not practice today. DT Jamil Smith (knee) and OL Trey Bailey (knee) were back in action after missing Thursday's practice.
Next Practice: The Demon Deacons will play their second intra-squad scrimmage Saturday, Aug. 19, at 1 p.m. at Groves Stadium.
