University of Louisiana at Lafayette Athletics
Cajuns Go Back to Work
8/13/2007 5:00:00 AM | Football
Louisiana's Ragin' Cajuns went back to work on Monday following Sunday's day off for Media Day and Fan Day activities. The team ventured out in shoulder pads at their normal 3:30pm time under intense heat.
In addition to water available at all times, the Cajuns practice itinerary has been updated to include a total of five breaks. The team has mandated a break before and after every four eight-minute practice periods.
The athletes have conditioned themselves well and are in superior shape, as there have been no heat related set-backs.
The team started practice with the temperature of “just” 99 degrees. At 5pm, the temperature on the field was 108 degrees.
Monday's workout started with the Cajuns “Accountability” period. A film review from Saturday's scrimmage was conducted over the weekend and the players were documented each time they gave up during a play. The offense and defense conduct their “accountability” differently, but players are asked to stand and must tell their teammates how many times they did not give 100 percent.
“We want all eleven players on the field running to the football on every play,” said Cajuns safeties coach Tim Rebowe. “When you give up on a play, you are credited with a loaf.
“We credited way too many loafs (from the scrimmage) for us to be successful. If 10 players run to the football, the one guy who gave up on the play could cost you.
“Every loaf is posted on a board in the locker room, but it's hard to stand up at practice in front of your peers and tell them how many times you cost your team.”
Following the accountability period, the team moved into their normal practice drills and installation. A team period of first-down drills was successful for both sides.
“We continue to not let the heat get to us and get some good work in,” stated Rebowe. “Neither side of the ball is scheming to stop the other. The defense doesn't practice against our offenses plays, we just look for execution and good overall competition.”
The Cajuns will practice twice on Tuesday. The morning session will be in full pads at 8am, while the afternoon slate begins at 3:30pm.
