Aug. 22, 2001

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C.-Wake Forest football is one step closer to the Demon Deacon opener against ECU with an inner squad scrimmage at Groves Stadium this morning. Head coach Jim Grobe was pleased with the team's performance but acknowledges two-a-day practices are taking a toll.

"I was really pleased with the effort of our kids today. We are tired right now, but are still working really hard. Some schools are in one-a-day practices because their schools have already started but we don't start school until next week so we have to go two solid weeks with two-a-day practices."

Coach Grobe is focusing on fundamentals and getting back to the basics, starting with special teams. The Demon Deacons spent morning and afternoon practices working on these fundamentals. Mental toughness was the theme.

"We are going to continue to work on our kicking game. We are not where we need to be in a kicking game right now but Tyler Ashe is doing the best as far as field goals and kick offs are concerned and (backup punter) Chris Rolle is working on his punting."

Coach Grobe realizes that a lot of work still needs to be done but is confident that his team has what it takes. The afternoon practice was filled with more energy and determination from the players. Grobe believes the team has adjusted to the changes in the coaching styles and is ready to get down to business.

"I think the biggest thing for us is that our kids are starting to pick up our terminology and our schemes offensively and defensively but we need to work on fundamentals. We need to catch the ball better and block better. Blocking and tackling are the things that make a good team and those are what we need to work on. I feel good about where we are right now."

The Demon Deacons continue two-a-day practices this week in preparation for the season opener at ECU on Sept. 1.