March 31, 2005
ORLANDO - For the third straight day, UCF hit the practice field Thursday as the Golden Knights worked out for just over two hours in full pads. The fifth practice of the spring, UCF continued to work on team packages, including installation of both the offense and defense.
"I have been pleased with our progress through five days," stated UCF head coach George O'Leary. "I think the kids have been hanging in there and they have a much better field presence this spring."
With the Golden Knights in pads for the third straight morning, the players' stringent off-season workouts have paid off. The Golden Knights have been relatively healthy this spring, with the one exception being junior linebacker Chris Welsh. O'Leary informed the media Thursday that Welsh broke his hand earlier in spring drills, but the Cocoa native can practice during non-contact drills.
UCF spent time installing the inside running game on Thursday. The quarterbacks and receivers also spent time working one-on-one vs. the defensive backs, with both Steven Moffett and Kyle Israel throwing to the wide outs during the drill.
The wide receivers enjoyed the one-on-one period, with several long completions from both Moffett and Israel to Mike Walker, Javid James and Andre Sumpter.
During the team period, Moffett hit Brandon Marshall on a 20-yard pass play while Israel hit James on a 30-yard reception.
Defensively, Paul Carrington forced a would-be sack and freshman Jordan Richards broke up a crossing route in pass coverage.
UCF returns to the practice fields Friday morning from 9:20-11:30 a.m.