March 30, 2005
ORLANDO - The UCF football team completed its fourth practice of the spring under sunny conditions Wednesday morning in Orlando. The Golden Knights hit the field in full pads, continuing the trend of working on fundamentals while also mixing in team periods of work and some scrimmage periods of practice as well.
"I thought since we are starting to install more of the offense and defense there is some hesitation, but I thought there were several guys who individually had a good practice," stated UCF head coach George O'Leary. "I thought some of the receivers practiced well and I continue to see progress in both lines, which is important."
During the team periods of work between the offense and defense, both sides of the ball took turns making plays. Both quarterbacks - Steven Moffett and Kyle Israel - threw the ball well at times during the team periods.
Moffett hit Brandon Marshall on a long pass play early on as Marshall broke several tackles, only to fumble the ball when tackled after a 30-yard gain.
The defensive line looked impressive early on in the team period, as defensive tackles Keith Shologan and Emeka Okammor combined on a tackle behind the line of scrimmage of Dontavius Wilcox. Dennis King and Kareem Reid also had apparent sacks, as contact was limited on the quarterbacks.
Moffett hit tailback Jason Peters out of the backfield on a 3rd down and nine play to give the offense a first down.
Mike Walker also looked comfortable at wide receiver, including an 18-yard reception from Moffett vs. the first team defense.
Israel found Blake Carter three times in the passing skeleton period.
In the final team period of work, Moffett threw a perfect pass to Walker, which resulted in a would-be touchdown. Peters had the best run of the day, with a long scamper down the sideline.
"We still need to find some guys who will have consistency in everything they do, which is something you always strive for," added O'Leary. "It's early in spring yet, so we still have some time." The Golden Knights return to the practice field Thursday morning at 9:20 a.m. Spring drills are open to the public, but visitors must sign in at the Wayne Densch Sports Center before entering the practice complex.