Pirates Hold Short Scrimmage on Thursday
November 13, 2003 | Football
The intrasquad affair, which utilized a scoring system that awarded points based on first downs, turnovers, and other significant events, saw the defense edge the offense, 26-23.
"I was very pleased with our guys," head coach John Thompson said. "They competed, they had fun, and the game came down to the very last play. Our defense got some turnovers and the offense moved the ball down the field. These guys come out here day after day, work hard, and do so many things. So many times, they don't get a pat on the back. But they had fun today."
Freshman transfer quarterback Patrick Dosh starred on offense as he rushed 14 times for 80 yards and a touchdown. He was 6-of-20 in passing for 70 yards, with three of those passes going to redshirt freshman receiver Will Bland. Dosh scored the scrimmage's only touchdown on a nine-yard run late in the session.
"Patrick turned in a tough performance," Thompson said. "He took some shots, kept getting up, and moved the ball down the field. I know he's frustrated because he threw a couple of interceptions, but that comes from being on the scout team all year long."
Fullback Jason Pender, a sophomore, was the game's second-leading rusher with 53 yards on 10 carries.
On defense, true freshman Pierre Parker had an all-around game with an interception, a fumble recovery, and a sack. Sophomores Markeith McQueen and Antonie Nealy also had picks. True freshman defensive end Wendell Chavis recorded two tackles for losses and a sack.
Nearly 200 fans braved the chilly, windy weather to watch the scrimmage, which was open to the public.
The Pirates have an open date this weekend and will take the next two days off from practicing. They will return to the practice fields on Sunday to continue preparation for the Tulane game scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 22, at New Orleans, La.
