April 21, 2007

The University of New Mexico football team went through a 70-minute controlled scrimmage today on a cool, breezy day in Albuquerque. The Lobos began with eight periods of position drills on the practice field before moving to University Stadium for the first extended scrimmage of the spring. Today was the sixth of 15 practices that culminates with the annual Cherry-Silver game on Wednesday, May 2. UNM returns to the practice field Monday at 3 p.m.

The scrimmage featured a mix of primarily the first two offenses and defenses going against each other. The third-team offense and third-team defense also squared off.

"I thought we were a little sloppy," said head coach Rocky Long. "I think the offense got hampered a little bit when our starting offensive tackle and potential all-conference player (Devin Clark) went out (ankle sprain) and we had to play with a freshman, so I'm sure there were a lot mistakes made. I don't think anyone played to the caliber that we need to win."

The defense dominated early, but senior WR Marcus Smith eventually got the No. 1 offense on the board when he took a wide receiver screen from sophomore QB Donovan Porterie 45 yards for a score. Smith caught 5 passes for 122 yards on the afternoon, however, he did lose a fumble inside the red zone while mishandling a direct snap from center.

"We did all right but we still have room for improvement," said Smith. "We had a lot of mental mistakes, assignments, lining up wrong, myself included."

One heads-up play was executed by reserve holder Jason Caprioli. Unable to get a high snap down in time on a field goal attempt, Caprioli alertly took off around the right end for a 14-yard gain and a first down. That led to a 21-yard field goal by senior Eric garrison.

The two Lobos vying to replace all-conference K Kenny Byrd had a good day, combining to make four of five. Garrison added a 31-yarder, but had a 19-yard attempt blocked by sophomore DE Kendall Briscoe. Senior John Sullivan converted from 21 yards and was most impressive on a 49-yard effort into a stiff wind that cleared the crossbar by a couple of yards.

"The defense is getting after it, as a group we're pretty good together," said Briscoe. "Once we get our heads together and get to the ball, we're going to be an outstanding group."