Lamar sports information

BEAUMONT – The Lamar football team wrapped up its second spring camp under head coach Mike Schultz Thursday evening with the annual Spring Game at Provost Umphrey Stadium.

The Cardinals played two quarters for the fans who came out to see the scrimmage, which was followed by an autograph session in the south end zone.

Big Red’s offense finished the night with more than 400 total yards, including 143 yards on the ground (4.4 ypc).

“We are bigger, faster and stronger on both sides of the line than any point last year,” said Schultz. “Obviously, having talent in those two areas really goes a long way to helping you on the football field.”

Senior Darrel Colbert Jr. got the start behind center with the ones completing 5 of 9 passes (.555) for 65 yards, but was picked off once in the end zone. He was just as effective on the ground carrying the ball seven times for 42 yards, and a touchdown. Colbert was one of three quarterbacks to take snaps Thursday.

Sophomore quarterback Adam Morse of Groves was the most efficient signal caller completing 7 of 11 (.636) for 118 yards, including a long of 45 yards to junior Zae Giles. Morse opened the scrimmage misfiring on four of his first five attempts, but got hot late converting four of his final six.

The third quarterback to get a look was Old Dominion transfer, Jordan Hoy. The 6-1, 195-pound junior completed 9 of 16 passes (.563) for 115 yards and led the Cards on two scoring drives. He also carried the ball three times for 20 yards, and appeared to have a rushing touchdown before being called down short of the goal line. Hoy simply pushed the offense across the line on the next play when he found Beaumont native Kendrick King in the back of the end zone from two yards out. King also scored on the very next play for the two-point conversion.

Junior and 2017 Honorable Mention All-Southland selection Case Robinson hauled in three passes for 60 yards, while Giles had two receptions for 60 yards. Sophomore Dawud Shorts hauled in two passes for 47 yards and a touchdown (TD reception was 13 yards).

Offense versus defense scrimmages can be tough to evaluate from the point of view of the spectator. With the numbers the offense put up it would appear the game was dominated by the players in the all red uniforms, but the defense held LU’s passing offense in check through the first quarter. The Cardinals opened the scrimmage completing just five of the first 15 attempts, including an interception (Davon Jernigan).

Big Red’s defense finished the night with six tackles for losses, including three sacks – one each by sophomore Josh Jinning, junior James Jeffery and sophomore David Crosley – three pass breakups and two quarterback hurries.

The defense was led by senior Lane Taylor’s five tackles. In addition to his sack, Jeffery added four stops, including two for losses. Jernigan also had two tackles to go along with his interception.

“It was a good spring, but it wasn’t great,” said Schultz. “We are definitely improving as a team. We are not where we want to be but we are moving forward. We just have to keep working hard and improving. We now have some time for our guys to really focus in on their academics and getting stronger in the weight room.”