Zips spring practice: Session X: So-so kind of day

The Akron Zips’ 10th day of practice proved to be a bit low-key – unless you were a member of the defense.

The offense, as coach Terry Bowden said, is supposed to operate with poise. Well, they acted with a little bit too much poise for Tuesday’s a.m. practice.

In scrimmage situations, the offensive squad lacked a sense of urgency and energy overall. It could be a case of spring practice blahs.

Of the quarterbacks, Kyle Pohl masterminded the best drive of the day – cool methodical and it culminated in a touchdown.

Dalton Williams hit wide receiver A.J. Price with a deep ball of about 40 yards. Price made a nice catch on the ball overall. Williams also completed a slant pass to running back Rayshawn Walton for a TD.

But overall it was a better day for the defense as they played with emotion, intensity and it showed in their success. A big difference is that coach Chuck Amato has begun installing blitz packages, something safety ShelDon Miller took advantage of with a sack.

It’s becoming more apparent that Cody Grice, the former Firestone Falcon, will have a major role on the defensive line. Grice’s athleticism is a distinct advantage as he goes up against bulkier and slower offensive linemen. Grice was able to get his hand on a pass zipping by him and almost came up with a spectacular interception.

Quarterback Clayton Moore ran the offense near the end of practice in goal line situations without a lot of success. The offense got four shots at getting the ball in the end zone from the two and came up with just one score as the defense swarmed. If the Zips get their linebacking situation together, they could be vastly improved over last year.