Week One:
How have the first few practices gone?
Real well; we’ve had afternoon practices and put in some of the offense and defense.
What is the one thing that has impressed you about your new team this spring?
These kids have great attitudes and they work hard. They are trying to do what we are telling them.
What is the atmosphere you want to project in this first spring practice?
I want them to have fun while learning. Their great attitudes are helping.
Is there one group that is standing out already this first week?
I think the returning defensive backs are standing out; they are a lot more athletic than we give them credit for. We are coming hard at them; and their confidence is growing.
In addition to the football work, what else are you doing with the players?
We are doing regular workouts to keep them strong and we are doing agility drills which will pay off in the fall.
How do Denison players compare to the players you are used to in Snyder (Texas)?
I never compare teams; not even from one year to the next. I’m more interested in the young men than wins. I don’t compare brothers or teams.
What is the one thing physically that has surprised you?
We are extremely quick. They are good and quick. This is what I am looking at.
Specifically, what are you installing on the offensive side?
We will have a mixture of I-formation, spread offense and use what works with the kids we have. I want to put them in the best position to succeed.
How is your starting quarterback, Clifton Hines, doing so far?
He is good; he’s picking it up for us.
Are there other players vying for quarterback playing time?
Yes, we have Will Parker and my son, Chance Rogers. Chance has helped the other guys a lot as he already knows the offense.
What about the receiving corps?
Returning players Clay Stubblefield and Jaleel Turner are really coming on for us. They have some talent. And Devan Blanton will probably play three positions for us.
What about lineman on offense and defense?
I’m big on atmosphere and team chemistry; these guys we got on the line are stepping up to be leaders.
Now, the ‘biggie,’ what about running backs?
Our backs are strong; at fullback we have Colton Hensley and Aaron Matthews; at tailback, we have Denard Whitfield and Josh Henry.
And rounding out the offense, what about potential tight ends?
We have four guys who will be great for us: Tyler Reeves, Jordan Simpson, Anthony McKinney and Tristan Aday.
