Football Opens Spring Practice

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. – The Northern Arizona football team opened spring practice in preparation for the 2012 season and their first game against Arizona State Tuesday. The Lumberjacks conducted a two-hour practice with their large returning group, new mid-year signees and spring walk-ons.

"It went well," said Head Coach Jerome Souers. "The first day is usually sloppy and full of mistakes. It was nice to see that we did not have any of those problems. The guys did a nice job in their individual drills. They look physically in shape and stronger than last fall. It is a testament to our strength and conditioning staff."

The team had its first of two non-contact practices without pads this week, working out in helmets and shorts on the first day.

"We were in soft gear so we are limited with the team but we did a lot of organizational things like lining up, making our calls and getting in and out of the huddle. Things procedurally that can cause errors did not today. We are pleased where we are at. There were all positive things on the first day."

Running back Zach Bauman, one of seven returning All-Big Sky players on the team, liked the first day of action. Bauman led the Big Sky Conference in rushing at 130.5 yards per game (fifth in the FCS) and ranked ninth in total offense and fourth in scoring. He rushed for 1,435 yards, the third-best total in school history, with 15 touchdowns, the second-best total in school history, while recording 1,787 all-purpose yards from scrimmage.

"It was a pretty good day," said Bauman. "We are not in pads but it is good get out here and fly around with the team."

The Lumberjacks return to the field again on Thursday from 4-6 p.m.