Heat of the battle

Wednesday’s afternoon practice was the last practice that is open to the public. The practice was held with no pads. This is the first time the afternoon session was without pads.

The defense played out of their mind. I thought it was the best performance by the defense since camp opened. The first 11 on 11, Chad Greenway picked off a Christian Ponder pass and off to the races he went. The next pass attempt was knocked down by Greenway. The third play was incomplete. Series 1 win to the defense or should I say Greenway.

Several players on defense really stepped up including Chris Cook. It seems almost a daily occurance Cook is able to defend the deep ball and knock it away.

Brandon Burton and Eric Frampton also had passes broken up. Ex-Chicago Bears Zack Bowman made a beautiful interception today as well.The offense did struggle, yet there were some bright spots.

Rookie Jarius Wright caught 2 touchdowns today with one from Joe Webb and one from McLeod Bethel-Thompson. Bryan Walters continues to make the catch when needed. He so far is Mr. dependable. Devin Aromashodu also had a very nice day including making a great sideline catch.

For the first time we had a squimish. Harrison Smith and Percy Harvin went at it. Jerome Simpson came and gave Smith a shove also. It was quite a sight as a rookie taking on a veteran. There were about 12 players involved. I always think it is crazy any time there is a scuffle you can whistles blowing and blowing. What does that do? The players seem to ignore and go on until players or coaches can break things up.

Today was a big day for the defense. It almost seems like every other day one side of the ball steps it up. The practice was a lot of fun to be at.

After practice a kid asked Ryan D’Imperio for his cleats. Ryan took the sweaty shoes off autographed them and gave it to the kid.

Chad Greenway also stopped to sign and with that brings a crowd of fans. There was a fan in a wheel chair in the group of fans. Chad finished signing went around people and went to the fan in the wheelchair and signed for this person. What a nice touch by Greenway.

There was also a couple from Pipestone celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary today. They got married 25 years ago and a couple days after went to training camp. This is the first time in 25 years they have been back. What a way to celebrate their anniversary.

Next up: 10 players to watch for on Friday’s game in San Francisco

Thanks for reading
Purplestick