Indiana University Athletics
IU Plays First Spring Scrimmage
4/12/2003 12:00:00 AM | Football
April 12, 2003
Bloomington, Ind. - The Indiana football team had its first controlled scrimmage on Saturday in the eighth practice of the spring.
The scrimmage was highlighted by an excellent performance by the defense. Leading the way was the front seven, who did a solid job defending the run. Even on special teams, it was the defense that made plays, as receiver Courtney Roby came from the outside to block a Bryan Robertson field goal attempt. Cornerback Duane Stone recovered the loose ball and took it back 50 yards before being taken down.
"This was a mid-term and I think the defense is ahead of the offense," Head Coach Gerry DiNardo said. "The defense passed, but the offense has a failing grade so far, but we still have the final exam to take."
There were some bright spots for the Indiana offense, as Matt LoVecchio was solid in the short passing game. In addition, both Brian Lewis and Yamar Washington had a couple nice runs. Washington had a particularly hard-driving 15-yard run up the middle, which moved the chains and set up another 15-yard run by Washington in the same drive that resulted in the offense's lone touchdown.
Graeme McFarland had some spots where he was able to lead drives, but his best drive came to an end when Ty Henderson intercepted a pass at the six yard line. Also coming up with an pick in the scrimmage was safety Mike Doyle, who got his interception on the final play of the scrimmage.
"We will get better," Offensive Coordinator Al Borges said. "I think that we need to be more competitive out there. Today we were not as good as we have been, but it is the first time the guys have played under any pressure."
The Hoosiers will be back on the practice field next week, leading up to the Spring Game, which will be played at 7 p.m. on Friday, April 25 at Memorial Stadium. The Spring Game is open to all fans. Admission is free, with the stadium gates opening at 5:30 p.m.
