Bobcats hold first scrimmage

Texas State held its first scrimmage of fall camp this past Sunday.

The event was open to the public and for fans, it was their first opportunity to see the Bobcats since the Maroon-Gold Game back in April.

With the offense still in a young state of its development, Texas State head coach Everett Withers gave his more experienced defense a handicap in regards to blitz packages. Defensive coordinator Randall McCray was only allowed to use one outside and one inside blitz during Sunday morning’s exhibition.

"I basically tied Coach McCray's hand behind his back today and that was to really help our offense as far as the youth," Withers said. 

Since all of Texas State's available quarterbacks were true freshmen, Withers wanted to use Sunday as an opportunity to test the players' mettle under game-like conditions, but not overload them with advanced defensive pressure just yet.

The offenses ended the day with more points in the winner-losing day scenario which meant that they were first in line at lunch and first to get in the cold tubs after practice while the defense were tasked with running wind sprints.

"We didn't play quite as fast as I'd want to (on offense) and that's first scrimmage, guys trying to make sure they get the signal," Withers said.

Although the offense didn't bust any play calls or protection schemes, Withers said communication issues had a lot to do with the offense's lack of tempo. The primary problems came from the play-caller relaying the message to the signaler and then the quarterback receiving the right signs.

Willie Jones III and Jaylen Gipson manned the first and second teams while Kishawn Kelley, who's arm is still recovering from off-season shoulder surgery ran a bit at running back. Jones earned high praise from Withers following practice.

Kelley and Jaylin Nelson could likely see time at other positions, especially Kelley who might even show up on defense at times according to Withers. 

Unsurprisingly, Withers commended the first-team defense. All of Texas State's first unit contributors, except for Sami Awad, played last season. The second-team wasn't as sharp as he would've liked.

"We've got time," Withers said. This is probably where we ought to be as a team right now.

"I was pretty pleased for a first scrimmage. For us being out here day 12 but we've got a long way to go."

In regards to special teams, Withers said the punting is looking solid and the return game looks more secure than last season. There is still an issue with missed PATs and field goals, however.