Spring Practice Day 5 -- Steven's Return
April 6, 2011
Corvallis, Ore. -
By Anthony Casson
For OSUbeavers.com
The on-field performances of Oregon State footballers helped kick up the energy level a notch today, inside the Truax Indoor Center. But the long-awaited return of OSU’s legendary running back—current NFL star—Steven Jackson transformed the environment completely.
From the first day of practice, Beaver greats started dotting the sidelines; now over a week later, we’re well past the “dotting” stage. Alexis Serna, Yvenson Bernard, Sabby Piscitelli, Jonathan Smith and Sammie Stroughter are a few of the regulars. Jackson and current NFL cornerback Brandon Hughes have added their names to the list.
Jackson, currently interning for Nike while the NFL lockout continues, had some time to take in Corvallis and the OSU Athletics facilities, including the new players lounge, to which he donated money for its construction.
“The image that you see, that Coach (Mike) Riley and his team continue year in and year out, is what makes me go, as well,” Jackson said. “(Corvallis) is a place that has shaped the man that I am. It continues to hold a special place in my heart.”
At the end of practice, Jackson, surrounded by coaches and players, gave a speech about taking preparation to a higher level and how to become an “elite athlete.” He reminded the players of why they’re here and of the special, family-oriented program they play for.
Riley has had his hands full the past four practice sessions with coaching new-look squads and touching bases with his former players.
“It’s been a special week to have all these guys come back,” Riley said. “It’s great. He (Jackson) had a great message to the players—pretty fun stuff.”
Today was the last day for preparation leading up to the first scrimmage of the spring, on Friday. The offense continued to fire rapidly, particularly in the passing game. Freshman quarterback Sean Mannion showed his growth from last fall, and the entire tailback lineup continued their fight for the top spot.
The defense added freshman Josh Williams to linebacker. Williams, after a greyshirt year, was cleared to play; he started classes on Tuesday. He joins a linebacker group that has made its presence known throughout spring session.
“The enthusiasm and the effort have been outstanding,” Riley said. “There’s been some good playmaking on both sides of the ball.”
Fans will get a better look at the 2011 Beavers during Friday’s approximate 60-play-scrimmage. Riley wants to “let those guys loose” after the first two practices with full pads.
A note to Salem area Beaver fans, Coach Riley will be the guest speaker at the April 28 at the Salem Conference Center. For more information please contact the Beaver Athletic Student Fund at 541-737-2370.
Support Oregon State University Athletics by making your tax deductible donation to the Beaver Athletic Student Fund. For more information follow this Varsity O Facebook Page for upcoming Alumni events. Follow the Beavers on the team’s official YouTube page.
