Oklahoma State University Athletics
Oklahoma State Football Practice Report, April 1
April 01, 2013 | Cowboy Football
April 1, 2013
VIDEO: Gundy Post-Practice Comments
STILLWATER, Okla. - The Oklahoma State football team practiced Monday in chilly and windy conditions dressed in full pads on the practice fields adjacent to Gallagher-Iba Arena. Following the approximately two-hour session, coach Mike Gundy talked about a variety of subjects:
On if he's learned anything new about the team now that it has had several practices in pads:
"We have a very competitive group. I like the defense and our aggressive style of play - challenging the receivers more. Our pass rush has been really good. And I like the tempo of our offense."
On if anyone in particular is thriving in the new defensive system:
"Our style of play benefits our corners and their ability to challenge receivers. Lyndell Johnson has made a nice adjustment at the safety spot and that has made Shamiel Gary a better football player. It allows Joe Mitchell and Caleb Lavey a little more flexibility than what we've had in the last couple years."
On any position battles coming to the fore now that pads are on:
"I'm not sure that any particular position is different than the others. We've got quarterbacks that are competing and a number of young wide receivers that are wanting to get into a starting role or buy some playing time next season. We have a number of young defensive linemen that are out here. I don't think any position in particular, but as a group, there is a lot of real competitive nature on the field."
On receiver David Glidden now that he is at full speed for the first time in his college career:
"David is coming along. He's been in our program long enough now and he's comfortable with our offense. He's healthy and competing and should be a good player for us. He should be a really good role player - a guy that plays in our system and understands where he's supposed to be on the field and knows how to make a play with the football."
On the defensive ends:
"They're more aggressive. This style of defense allows them to have more freedom in their pass rush. We want them to come off the ball and attack. As we progress through the spring and early in August, we should start seeing signs of - and the benefits of - this style of play. We've got a ways to go. Just from an experience standpoint, we lost those three guys from last year, but they're good kids, they're working hard and I really like how Joe Bob Clements is working with them and I think they have a good relationship."
