BOONE, N.C. — Running back
Anderson Castle plowed forward into a group of tacklers, creating a logjam in the middle of the field.
App State defenders, as they're known to do, showed tireless effort in running to the football. And App State offensive linemen, as they're known to do, hustled downfield so they could throw another block or assist their back.
With a cold front bringing some late-April snow flurries to the High Country, that was an App State Football kind of play on an App State Football kind of day.
"Overall, we're right where we need to be," head coach
Shawn Clark said. "With two more practices left, we'll hone in on certain details and situational offense and defense and wrap this thing up."
Below is a recap from Wednesday, which included a 50-play scrimmage, with thoughts from Clark and a few highlights from the offense and defense.
App State's 2021 season opens Thursday, Sept. 2 with a neutral-site game against East Carolina at Charlotte's Bank of America Stadium. The 2021 home opener is Sept. 18 vs. Elon.
The season ticket renewal and parking request due date is April 30. Season ticket holders who haven't renewed as of yet need to refer to their activation email from Paciolan to activate their account (you retained your same account number). At that point, you can renew your season tickets online.
THOUGHTS FROM COACH CLARK
"I thought we ran the ball good today on offense at times, and I thought our defensive line played very well. Some young corners stepped up and made some plays. We have a lot of talent on the defensive side of the ball, so it was good to see our offense step up and compete today and go down and score a couple of times."
OFFENSIVE HIGHLIGHTS
The offense began the scrimmage, which included situational scenarios like four-minute offense,
with several chain-moving plays in quick succession.
Miller Gibbs hauled in a 27-yard touchdown on a trick-play pass, and
Gabe Montgomery had a short touchdown run after moving the offense into scoring position with a long run.
Chandler Staton converted one field goal, and
Chase Brice scrambled for a touchdown.
DEFENSIVE HIGHLIGHTS
The black-shirted defense was able to apply plenty of pressure, with sacks coming from
Jalen McLeod,
Nick Hampton,
Demetrius Taylor and
Caleb Spurlin, who also blocked a kick.
Defensive tackle
Jordon Earle displayed plenty of enthusiasm after recovering a fumble in the offensive backfield.
