Indiana University Athletics
Spring Standouts
4/8/2003 12:00:00 AM | Football
April 8, 2003
Bloomington, Ind. - If the sole purpose of spring practice is to get an early gauge on what improvements players have made in the off-season, then there are several players who have seen their stock rise.
Defensive end Kenny Kendal and linebacker Kyle Killion have made tremendous strides in positions that Indiana needs players to come forward the most.
A redshirt last season, Kendal is a 6-2, 243-pound native of Chicago, Illinois. Kendal has demonstrated a knack for getting into the backfield and wreaking havoc. He is putting himself in a position to be a potential impact player during the fall on Gerry DiNardo's defensive line. He, along with tackle Russ Richardson (who has added 25 pounds in the off-season thus far and is up to 260 pounds) have stood out on the defensive line.
As for Killion, the 6-0, 223-pound middle linebacker entered the spring as the Hoosiers' top middle linebacker and has proven why. The Kingwood, Texas native has already dished out a couple jarring hits this spring, including one during last Thursday's practice that wide receiver Courtney Roby called "the hardest hit I've ever taken".
On the offensive side of the ball, Roby has distributed some punishment as well, but in different ways. Roby has made several circus grabs and has worked hard to cut down on his drops from last year. His ability to make plays has made him a dangerous weapon for the Indiana offense. Roby, who head coach Gerry DiNardo referred to as a player that could have a big impact on this year's team, has wasted little time getting in sync with new quarterback Matt LoVecchio.
Also shining for the offense is a more assertive John Pannozzo. Hoosier fans will remember how the 5-11, 225-pound fullback started his career by scoring two touchdowns in his first game in an Indiana uniform in last year's season opener. So far in spring ball, Pannozzo has shown a fiery side that has added some good intensity to the offense.
The Hoosiers continue spring practice throughout the month and will take the field for the spring game at 7 p.m. on April 25 at Memorial Stadium. Admission is free to all fans, with the stadium gates opening at 5:30.
