Aug. 15, 2005
EASTON, Pa. (www.lafayette.edu) - The Lafayette football team completed its inaugural session of two-a-day practices on Monday, one day after strapping on full pads for the first time in preseason camp.
The Leopards practiced in shoulder pads on Friday and Saturday after two days with only helmets. The double sessions, which will alternate every other day with a single three-hour practice scheduled in between, signal the start of two weeks of full contact drills before preparations for the Sept. 3 season opener at Marist begin in earnest.
One of the major focal points heading into camp was the offensive line, which lost three starters to graduation, including first-team All-Patriot League performers Stephen Bono and Joe Ungrady at right guard and right tackle, respectively.
"The first thing we're looking to solidify is the first unit on the offensive line, and I think we've been able to do that," Tavani said. "We have been shuffling guys around to put a second group together, intending to create a number of competitive situations to challenge for spots and improve the quality of depth that we have up front."
The depth chart along the offensive line has been updated, as junior Joseph Lanzot has been promoted to the starting left guard spot. Classmate John Lucas will move to center to increase the depth behind senior Robert Stroble, who has started since the midpoint of his sophomore season. Mike Saint Germain and Drew Buettner are slotted at left and right tackle, respectively, with Ryan Nase lining up at right guard.
The offensive line, which has helped Lafayette rank among the Patriot League leaders in both rushing and passing offense each of the last four seasons, will pave the way for a number of talented tailbacks.
Jonathan Hurt, who started four games in 2004 and piled up 365 yards and three touchdowns on the ground behind Patriot League Offensive Player of the Year Joe McCourt, has established himself as the leader in the backfield.
"Jon Hurt is in a class of his own right now, in terms of his size, speed and experience," Tavani mentioned. "That being said, I also like the backs that we have behind him. Anthony D'Urso is running well. He's a strong instinctive runner, and he's gaining confidence with every practice. Brandon Mitchell has been impressive in the reps that he's received. I expect Alfred Belton and Chris Williams to be in that mix as well."
At fullback, co-captain David Nelson will be the starter, with former tailback and wide receiver Justin Lauver as the primary backup. The Leopards will look to use Lauver in a "utility back" role, taking advantage of his ability to create mismatches and catch the ball out of the backfield.
The preseason scrimmage, scheduled for Monday, Aug. 22 at 1:30 p.m., will be held at the Metzgar Fields Athletic Complex.
"Since we have seven games this year at Fisher Field, I figured we would do just as well to stay off of it until Friday before our home opener with Richmond," Tavani said. The Sept. 10 contest is set for a 1 p.m. kick-off.
