Football update: Johnson's injury, Agu's absence, and additional insights from UNM games
UNM Football: A Focus on Detail and Improvement
The University of New Mexico (UNM) football team is gearing up for the new season, with coaches emphasizing a meticulous approach to every aspect of the game.
Jason Eck, the new head coach, is leading the charge, focusing on minor details during practice to ensure continuous improvement. This methodical approach includes scouting, film study, organized note-taking, and continuous observation. Coaches break down offensive and defensive formations, identify tendencies, log specific player actions, and track patterns in real time to understand the flow of the game.
One player who has been working hard to recover from injuries is wide receiver Keagan Johnson, considered UNM's presumed WR1. Johnson has missed the first half of spring practice and tweaked his other hamstring earlier this summer, which is a concern for UNM's coaches. Eck expressed hope that Johnson will recover quickly, praising his dedication since joining the team.
In the meantime, defensive end Elijah Brody is getting reps and is likely to take over the position permanently in Johnson's absence. Brody, who played receiver and defensive back last season, was moved to linebacker before spring practice but is now being moved back to defensive end. Eck commented on Brody's versatility, stating that he has played four positions in 13 months.
Thursday's practice had testy moments, including an argument between offensive lineman Richard Pearce and defensive line coach Hebron Fangupo. However, no further details about these moments were provided.
Another challenge for UNM is the loss of freshman running back Darrion Bowers, who tore his ACL this summer and will be out for the season.
In positive news, defensive tackle Okiki Olorunfunmi was awarded the hammer on Wednesday and continued to impress on Thursday. Tight end Cade Keith was also awarded the hammer for his performance.
A scout for the Las Vegas Raiders was in attendance for parts of Thursday's practice, adding an extra layer of intensity to the proceedings.
Cam Watts, a former UNM cornerback, did not advance past the first round of the 100-meter dash at the USATF Outdoor Track & Field National Championships. Watts will be a graduate assistant with UNM's football team this year, working in the weight room.
Quarterback James Laubstein emphasized the importance of staying focused during walkthroughs to limit mental mistakes. UNM ended the first two practices with walkthroughs to prevent injuries and to rep plays when players are tired.
As the season approaches, the UNM football team is demonstrating a culture of relentless curiosity and discipline, where every moment is an opportunity to gather information and improve both minor details and overall game strategy.
The UNM football team's focus extends beyond the field, as coaches also stress the importance of health, encouraging injured players like Keagan Johnson to recover promptly. In the arts realm, Cam Watts, a former UNM cornerback, showcases his athleticism in the USATF Outdoor Track & Field National Championships.
