Practice Observations, 9/25/07

As the clouds darkened and weather cooled over Cartier Field, Notre Dame continued to practice outside. Honestly, it reminded us of last spring's open practice, where rain threatened and then doused the players, coaches and reporters:

• With Konrad Reuland gone, Will Yeatman joined John Carlson as a stretching partner. Quite a blow to Mike Ragone, who often had animated conversations with the lacrosse star.
• Dan Wenger wasn't at practice again Tuesday. This is the second straight week he hasn't been out there.
• Defensive end Justin Brown stretched with a trainer again and when the rest of the linemen were doing drills, he was off to the side, clearly hobbled. If we were to guess, we wouldn't think he'll be ready for Saturday, but it is still early in the week.
• Walk-on fullback Mike Narvaez also stretched alone.
• An unidentified offensive coach to sophomore guard Eric Olsen while working on a blocking drill, "Don't try to get under."
• Wide receiver Richard Jackson seems to be improving. He has upgraded from a silver cast matching his gloves to a small black brace on his left wrist.
• Ianello tells sophomore wide receiver George West to stay under control while going through the cones-and-catch drill. He referenced a comeback route West ran either in practice or in Saturday's game as the reason for it. Ianello's comment came from a momentary slip by the Oklahoman while going around the fourth cone.

Don't forget our predictions contest. No one has won yet this season, although for the second straight week there have been people close. Send your final score guesses to mrothstein@jg.net. Also, don't forget about the Friday Mailbag. Send your questions to mrothstein@jg.net or drop them in the comment boxes below.

-By Michael Rothstein of The Journal Gazette

Comments

[Tracy]

Purdue 24-ND 14

[Chuckie]

Tracy,
the final score might be that way under regular conditions...but NOT if the Irish learn to combat foes as fast as Bionic Woman does!