Did the Herd make the grade?

So what were your impressions of spring practice in general and the Green-White Game in particular? This is your chance to lay out early grades on the 2007 Thundering Herd. What did you like and what has you a bit nervous heading into the Sept. 1 season opener at Miami, Fla.? Again, feel free to give literal grades or just share thoughts from the past month.

Herd offense taking a stand

In a flip from recent seasons, Marshall University’s offense is winning out more often than not over its defensive teammates during spring practice. Lack of defensive depth definitely is a factor (Josh Johnson was the lone middle linebacker to practice on Tuesday), but credit is due to upgrades at Marshall’s skill positions. In response to several questions in previous blog logs (much easier to type than say), yes, quarterback Bernard Morris is looking better as spring practice develops. Wide receivers are hauling in long passes daily, but that result is equal parts talent at wideout and inexperience at cornerback. Practices are open this week -- Wednesday and Friday at 3:30 p.m. and Saturday’s Green-White Game at 3 p.m. -- so feel free to judge on your own.

Herd heads into pivotal weekend

This weekend should be prove pivotal in Marshall’s spring practice evaluation. A full pads session kicks off at 3:30 p.m. today, followed by an important scrimmage at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday. Both practices are open to the public, and fans are well-advised to turn out. Storylines such as the progress of newcomers Darius Passmore and Montel Glasco are beginning to play out. The following two practices will be interesting.

Biagi sidelined with injured knee

The news is in and it’s certainly not good for one of Marshall’s top special teams performers. Punter Marty Biagi is out for spring practice and his status for the season is uncertain after tearing the ACL and MCL in his non-kicking right knee. Biagi was injured while tackling punt returner Emmanuel Spann during Wednesday’s special teams scrimmage. Jake Fields takes over punting duties for Biagi, who also serves as the holder on field goals and extra point kicks.

Spring practice impressions

So here are early impressions of spring practice. Wide receiver is upgraded in a big way, meaning improved quarterback play is even more important. The targets are there (including an impressive tight end trio) for Marshall’s offense to be anything but one-dimensional. Offensive line also is promising, mostly because of depth. Yes, Daniel Baldridge’s mobility and John Inman’s lack of size are concerns at tackle, but redshirt freshmen Brandon Campbell, Josh Evans and Chad Schofield are providing depth Marshall hasn’t enjoyed in recent memory. Sean McClellan looks to be more than a dependable longsnapper. Junior college defensive tackle Montel Glasco doesn’t exactly look the part in shorts and a T-shirt, but carries his pads well. Several practices have been open, so feel free to share your thoughts as well. I look forward to the feedback.