Cowboys to show off their skills Saturday in first of two scrimmages

Published 10:33 am Friday, August 11, 2023

Proclaiming his team is “light years” ahead of last season, Gary Goff will showcase the Cowboys Saturday in the first of two scrimmages.

The second-year McNeese State head coach is expecting around 80 plays to be run depending on the weather as the Pokes start their countdown to the season opener in three weeks.

The scrimmage is set for around 8 a.m. inside Cowboy Stadium following a practice that begins an hour earlier.

“This is our first real chance to evaluate the team in a game situation,” said Goff. “It is always a little different when it’s in a game situation.”

With plenty of jobs still open, the camp has been intense. Goff wants to see his players take that energy into the scrimmage.

“I want to see the guys go out there and be excited, have a lot of fun,” Goff said. “I also want to see us play a good, clean game. I want to see some people make plays.

“I also want to see some points put up. It’s always tough because you want to see both sides do well. So I want to see both sides make plays.”

As expected a lot of eyes will be on the play of the quarterbacks. Tre’ Simmons and Nate Glantz continue their battle for the starting spot with Goff continuing to say it is close competition.

Simmons is expected to get the first set of reps in the scrimmage but the two are likely to get equal play. They continue to rotate in camp with the starters, switching off every day.

Last week both of the quarterbacks said they were ready if they get the call. Both have had their moments of good and bad, but the passing game has continued to improve through the workouts.

One of the most improved groups during camp has been the offensive line. With limited size in both numbers and physically, the McNeese offensive line struggled, especially when injuries hit.

“Our offensive line is way ahead of where we were last year,” said Goff. “We are much bigger and stronger. We redshirted a few guys last year and that has helped.

“I starting line is tough right now. This could be a big group for us.”

Goff also said the safeties have been impressive, leading a new secondary.

“They have made things tough down the middle of the field,” said Goff. “They have been really good so far.”

There are a lot of players who have stood out during camp but what Goff really wants to see is if they can carry that over when there are officials and fans.

“We still have a lot of work to do but we are excited about where we are right now,” he said.

The Cowboys are scheduled to hold their second and final scrimmage of the summer next Friday night. With classes starting Monday, they will shift to afternoon workouts Tuesday.

McNeese will open the season at home Sept. 2 against Tarleton State before hitting the road for three straight starting at Florida.