Observations from NC State's Open Practice

NC State held an open practice for students this Friday. Here are some of the observations and important notes from Friday’s session.

Perhaps the biggest question going into the season was on the offensive line, specifically the tackle spots. The recent talk of Thuney moving to left tackle appears to have merit, as he played in that spot with the ones today. Will Richardson was the right tackle and Barr was moved back to guard. One time expected starter Tyler Jones was practicing with the second team

The front four defensively appears to be set, with Chubb and Rose on the ends and Street and Hill in the middle. The second team defensive line looked rather impressive against the second team offensive line. They bottled up pretty much every rushing play and got good penetration whenever Jalan dropped back.

McClendon looked pretty impressive as well. He was on target with most of his throws, including a beautiful deep ball to Trowell while on the run. He also showed good speed on a first down scramble after his protection had broken down. Both McClendon and Brissett had some nice throws and some not as nice throws. Two or three passes should’ve been intercepted but were dropped.

Trowell and Ramos both made nice catches on downfield passes. Expect Ramos to play like he did his freshman season and become a big part of the receiving corps. Elliott Davis is also going to be a big factor at wide receiver, and his position change is looking like one of the smartest moves of the offseason. He made a great catch on an overthrown ball, then spun out of a tackle on what likely would’ve been a long touchdown in a real game.

Wright, Burris, Tocho, Jones, and Jones, Moore, and Fernandez were no surprise to see as the back seven. Pratt and Shawn Boone were the safeties on the second team, and Boone is expected by some to be a breakout defensive player.

Other Notes

Dayes made an awesome one handed catch in stride, and he looks to be a reliable receiving option again this season.

Kyle Bambard was kicking with the first team. He is very small, but looked to have a pretty strong leg.

Jaylen Samuels looked fast and very hard to tackle, as usual.

Nyheim Hines got work with the ones and he caught a few passes.

Sean Paul should add more quality depth the cornerback spot now that he is back from injury.

Thanks to all the students who came out today!! You guys are awesome. See you in 15 days!

A photo posted by NC State Wolfpack Football (@packfootball) on Aug 21, 2015 at 9:02am PDT

The players thanked all the students for coming out after it was over, then took a picture with them and Doeren, which I am technically in. Bryce Kennedy is a large person though and blocked me entirely from the camera.