March 24, 2001
The Texas A&M football team scrimmaged for nearly two hours Saturday at Kyle Field as part of their continuing spring drills.
During the controlled scrimmage, the first team offense faced the first team defense as did the second teams.
"It was a good scrimmage," A&M head coach R.C. Slocum said. "One of the problems we have is that we have a number of guys hurt. Then, we had Mickey Jones and Linnis Smith gone at a funeral and not here. It really effects the continuity of the units, especially the second teams. It has an impact over the way you play."
Highlighting the scrimmage was a solid effort from junior wide receiver Dwain Goynes who sparked the Aggies' offense on the opening drive. Twice Goynes grabbed receptions totalling approximately 20 yards giving the Aggies first downs. Goynes later managed a 15-yard run. For the scrimmage, Goynes made five receptions for about 40 yards.
"He's probably the fastest guy on our football team and someone we are going to get the ball to," Slocum said. "He showed signs of making plays and I'm really pleased with his development as a player."
Sophomore transfer wide receiver Jamaar Taylor opened some eyes with an early 12-yard reception and then later he scored a touchdown on a 9-yard pass from quarterback Vance Smith. Also, making plays was non-scholarship receiver Michael Morrow who made several receptions including one for at least 40 yards that put the Aggies in the red zone.
Part of the Aggies focus in the latter part of the scrimmage was play from the red zone. Returning starting quarterback Mark Farris led the Aggies to several scores including a touchdown pass to receiver Bethel Johnson at the goal line.
"The red zone is an emphasis for us this spring," Slocum said. "Last year it was a problem area for us and it's something we're working on this spring."
The Aggies will continue with spring drills on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday before hosting a Maroon & White Game on Saturday at 1 p.m. at Kyle Field.
All of the spring practices and scrimmages are open to the public, but fans are asked to stay behind the yellow line surrounding the practice field for safety reasons.