BLOG 17: Spring Game allows coaches to see what they have

Ferris quarterback Kyle Parrish (left) tries to fight his way into the end zone as he is pursued by Bulldog defender Zach Rosman (22) (Photo/Sandy Gholston)

By Sandy Gholston

BIG RAPIDS – One of the best things about the Crimson and Gold Spring Game is having an opportunity to watch guys get on the field and go at it in an event that will be even more competitive than the scrimmages.

For the coaches, it’s like test day as they will have an opportunity to finally turn the heat up a little and see how their players have progressed from the start of the spring until the end.

Throughout the spring, coaches have had high expectations and thus have been tough on their players. Head coach Jeff Pierce as well as offensive coordinator Matt McCarthy and assistant head coach and defensive coordinator Duane Wilson have all been through this many times. But, even those veteran coaches know the time is now for players to put the pieces together and take the final step this spring.

Expectations stretch well beyond the head coach and the coordinators, however. The position coaches want to see the fruits of their work in the spring game. Offensive line coach Eric Ravellette wants to see how his group is looking this spring as it will be the first line of protection for an offense eager to take a big leap in 2009. Defensive backs coach Chris Reese has an experienced group, but experience is no guarantee for success. With that in mind, Coach Reese has been pushing his unit hard. Defensive line coach Whitney Bell has been as vocal as ever working with his unit to continue to set the tone for a young unit. Special teams and running back coach Allen Curtiss has a lot on his plate, but special teams has some holes to fill with, for example, the loss of Jim Yates.

So, this is a big spring game for the coaching staff heading into Friday’s Crimson and Gold Spring Game, which begins at 6 p.m.

If you have any questions, ideas or comments feel free to contact Sandy Gholston at sgholston2@netzero.com