Indiana University Athletics
Indiana Ready for First Scrimmage
8/14/2015 1:03:00 PM | Football
By: Sam Beishuizen | Twitter
IUHoosiers.com
BLOOMINGTON, Ind. -- Indiana will scrimmage for the first time Saturday, but redshirt junior receiver Ricky Jones doesn't need any reminder.
He's been ready to go since last spring.
"I can't wait. Finally. Finally," Jones said. "I'm going to come out and do what I came here to do. It's time to go."
Saturday's scrimmage will mark the first time Indiana has held a true scrimmage at Memorial Stadium since last April's spring game.
To this point, the Hoosiers have been limited in just how many plays they've been able to run. Indiana senior linebacker Zack Shaw said the team has worked on plays, but not to the extent they'll see on Saturday.
Shaw said the chance to play again can be rejuvenating for a team that's still three weeks away from its season opener Sept. 5 against Southern Illinois.
"It's still early, but it's really an important day for us," Shaw said. "It's the eighth day of practice now. Guys are getting a little tired, but now we get a chance to go out and play. I feel like it's a big help to come out and be ready to go and see what we can do."
Because there are still some players adjusting to Indiana's system, playbook and new positions, Shaw said he's mostly looking for teammates to make plays with hustle enthusiasm.
He's eager to see just how much of a gain both he and the rest of his defense has made in the offseason in a hands on scrimmage.
"Our job out there is to make plays, stop the run and protect the pass," Shaw said. "That's our mindset as a defense and we know the offense will be doing the opposite. We've just got to go after it."
Cobbs impresses in practice
If you've managed to see any of Indiana's practices, there's a decent chance you've seen sophomore receiver Simmie Cobbs make a highlight reel catch.
Jones would know. He's been there to see them.
"He's been just ridiculous, man, like really good just play after play after play," Jones said. "Simmie Cobbs—he's a talker. I love his confidence. If I can keep his confidence up, he's going to have a great year."
As a freshman, Cobbs caught seven passes for 114 yards. He'll look to raise those numbers this season while taking on an increased role.
"I'm just out here trying to make as many plays as I can," Cobbs said. "This whole receiving group came out ready to go, and I'm just doing my part."
