University of Massachusets Athletics
UMass Football Holds Spring Game On Saturday
May 02, 2009 | Football
May 2, 2009
AMHERST, Mass. - The UMass football team held its annual spring football game in front of many former Minutemen greats on a beautiful Saturday afternoon at McGuirk Stadium. Head Coach Kevin Morris and the Mintutemen simulated a number of game situations, including the two-minute drill, special team situations, and more. Aaron Fears and Jonathan Hernandez had stellar afternoons as Fears caught two touchdown passes and Hernandez was steady on the ground. Former football greats Marcel Shipp, James Ihedigbo, and Brandon London were one of many alumni to return for the day.
In total, five quarterbacks took reps, with each showing flashes of brilliance. Scott Woodward ended the afternoon 6-for-9 with 60 yards. Octavious Hawkins was 5-for-9 for 75 yards and a touchdown. Junior college transfer Kyle Havens struggled initially, but bounced back with some big throws to finish 4-for-11 and 63 yards. Spencer Whipple had two touchdowns (one rushing) while Scott Wallace also threw for 29 yards and a touchdown.
Fears was the story of the day through the air. Early in the afternoon, he made a spectacular catch of a Wallace pass in the corner of the endzone to the delight of the crowd. Later, he added a 39 yard catch to set up the offense near the 50 yard line. He also added a 19 yard touchdown reception from Hawkins.
In total, 10 different players finished with a reception.
Hernandez was consistent on the ground with 42 yards on only eight carries. Alphonsus Aguh, Cedric Gonnet, and Tony Neslon also saw consistent carries. Nelson only had three carries, but did finish with 25 yards highlighted by a 16 yard scamper.
The defense made a number of interceptions, including one each by David Cozzo and Kumar Davis. Charles Thompson, Michael Hanson, and James Gilchrist all had sacks as well.
Check back to UMassAthletics.com all spring and summer long for updates as the football team looks ahead to the 2009 fall slate.
