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University of Minnesota Athletics
Blog: Gophers Players Ready for an Opponent
8/31/2010 12:00:00 AM | Football
With preseason training camp finished and the regular season opener just a couple days away, the Minnesota football team is showing a high level of confidence in its preparedness for its match-up at Middle Tennessee State Thursday.
After spending the last few weeks hitting dummies, blocking sleds and teammates, the Gophers are chomping at the bit to go up against players on an opposing team.
"Very excited," senior offensive lineman Jeff Wills said about the opportunity to hit opposing players. "These guys are my family, but I'm tired of hitting them. It's time to hit somebody else."
With the game lights set to come on Thursday evening, the training and preparation phase of the season comes to an end with the start of the regular season. Both coaches and players alike have expressed at-length the effort that has been put forward during the off-season and preseason in order to be prepared for the 2010 season.
"The work hasn't just been in the last month or so, it's been a year-long effort," junior linebacker Mike Rallis said.
Despite the high level of preparation being put in for the game against the Blue Raiders, the Gophers are making it a point to avoid being anxious and maintain their focus.
"We're excited, but we're keeping a cool, calm demeanor," junior running back Duane Bennett said.
-Athletic Communications Assistant Keith Beise
