Gallery
BALTIMORE, Md. (April 22, 2024) — On Sunday, March 21st, the Morgan State football team concluded its annual Orange vs. Blue Spring Game at Hughes Stadium. The intrasquad scrimmage served as a culmination of the Bears' spring practice and provided fans with a glimpse of the team's progress heading into the 2024 season.
The spring game provided a sneak peek into the team's potential for the upcoming season. Head Coach Damon Wilson expressed his assessment of the team's performance, acknowledging both positive and negative aspects. He emphasized the crucial need for scoring, stating, 'We just need to get the ball in the end zone and that is something that we must do to have success."
"We made some plays and we saw some guys that haven't played for us before," Wilson acknowledged. However, he also recognized the need for improvement, saying, "The reality is we have a lot of room to grow and make some changes."
Wilson's comments reflect a balanced evaluation of the team's current standing.
Throughout the scrimmage, the players displayed a number of impressive defensive and offensive plays. Notably, this scrimmage provided an opportunity to observe players who had not yet had the chance to showcase their skills.
"Today we played a lot of guys that have played a substantial amount of time and some of those guys took advantage of the reps and some didn't," said Wilson. He further emphasized that the coaching staff would take the next few days to evaluate the players' performances and make decisions moving forward.
Wilson spoke on how the running backs have improved over the off-season and how they are ready for the upcoming season.
"Myles Miree came out this spring with a pretty good grasp of the offense and we are going to lean on him to get some work done," said Wilson. "Keith Jenkins Jr. didn't take any snaps this spring, but I feel really good about his skills and I feel comfortable with those guys."
During the offseason, the team welcomed several new receivers to its roster, a move that has significantly bolstered the offense's potential. Sophomore quarterback Tahj Smith expressed optimism about the team's chemistry, stating that the players are adapting well to the new offensive scheme. "Our chemistry is built well," Smith said. "We're four weeks into the new offense, so we're just developing day by day."
Smith believes that the team's receivers will make a significant impact this season. "I think with the system we have our receivers will be pretty good," he said. "Today was just a glimpse of what we got."
Coach Wilson addressed his perspective of exploring the transfer portal.
"Over the past few weeks, the transfer portal has been abuzz with activity, as players have entered and exited college football programs," said Wilson. "The transfer portal is an opportunity for teams to improve their roster by acquiring more experienced players and filling gaps in specific positions, and we are going to take full advantage of it."
"In terms of our team's roster, we have identified areas where improvements can be made," Wilson noted. "It is our responsibility as a coaching staff to make those necessary adjustments these next couple of weeks when we are out spring recruiting."
Elijah Williams, a senior All-MEAC defensive lineman, has emerged as an indispensable asset to his team, both on and off the field. Recognizing the importance of leadership, Williams has actively taken on the role of a role model for his teammates.
"I'm just trying to set an example,' Williams explained. "You can't see me in a bad predicament and doing the wrong things. If they (teammates) see that too many times, they are going to think it is acceptable."
Williams, as one of the team's leaders, maintains a strong bond with Wilson. He emphasizes the importance of open communication with coach Wilson.
"I have a great relationship with him," Williams said. "The biggest thing is not being afraid not to go to coach Wilson. That's one thing we need as a team. We shouldn't be scared to go talk to the head man."
Tajh Smith, a promising young quarterback, made his collegiate debut last season. While initially serving as a backup, Smith's exceptional performance towards the end of the season earned him the starting role in the final three games. During the offseason, he dedicated himself to honing his skills and preparing for a breakout season.
Smith expressed confidence in his growth and development. "Coming into my second season, I feel a significant improvement. I'm more confident and have the unwavering support of my teammates and coaches. The new offensive coordinator has instilled a system that I fully embrace and trust. It empowers the playmakers around me, and I'm excited to see what we can accomplish together."
Coach Wilson has high praise for these young athletes, recognizing their ability to motivate and lead.
"Elijah Willams and Tajh Smith are players to watch," said Wilson. "They are players that lead by example and do the things that they are capable of doing."
The Spring Game marked the end of Morgan's spring practice schedule. The Bears will now focus on preparing for the 2024 season, which begins on Saturday, August 31 with a road game against the Hampton Pirates.
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ABOUT MORGAN
Morgan State University, founded in 1867, is a Carnegie-classified high research (R2) institution offering nearly 140 academic programs leading to degrees from the baccalaureate to the doctorate. As Maryland's Preeminent Public Urban Research University, and the only university to have its entire campus designated as a National Treasure by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Morgan serves a multiethnic and multiracial student body and seeks to ensure that the doors of higher education are opened as wide as possible to as many as possible. For more information about Morgan State University, visit www.morgan.edu.
