Aug. 11, 2017
When the San Jose State University football team held its first preseason scrimmage on August 5, the defense came up with a pair of touchdown-saving interceptions in the end zone. Defensive coordinator Derrick Odum hopes for more of the same when the Spartans hold their final weekend scrimmage, Saturday, August 12, in CEFCU Stadium starting at 2:00 p.m.
"We worked a lot in our thus far in the fall on turnovers. That's a crucial part. The more times we give the ball to our offense, the better it will turn out," says Odum who foresees keeping things `basic" during the scrimmage that is scheduled to go no more than two hours.
"I want to see them fly around, run hard and tackle well," added the Spartans' defensive coordinator.
The day's practice concluded with a visit from former San Francisco 49er and Pro Football Hall of Fame member Ronnie Lott addressing the team, taking photos and chatting individually with many of the San Jose State players and coaches.
"He's the best player in my opinion, that has played in the secondary. There's been a lot of great ones. As far as the intensity, the pride that he has, obviously the play-making ability and the toughness that he displayed when he was a player is undeniable," says Odum, a defensive back himself during his days at the University of Utah.
"Even when he was talking to our team, you just feel the fumes coming off and the intensity that he brings. It's awesome to have him here. It's a treat for these guys. You're talking to a Hall of Fame guy. He's the best."
There is no charge to watch the scrimmage. Parking is available in the 7th Street Lot across the street from CEFCU Stadium.
The day begins at 11:30 a.m. with a youth football camp for boys and girls in the first through sixth grades. Fans can get autographs and take pictures with players and coaches from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. DJ Brotha Reese will out to provide musical entertainment during the scrimmage. Hungry fans can visit the food trucks located on Stadium Way near the north entry to CEFCU Stadium.
Tickets for all San Jose State home games are available starting with the season opener, August 26, vs. USF (South Florida) by visiting www.sjsuspartans.com or calling the Spartan Athletics Ticket Office at 408-924-SJTX.