Cougs’ practice sets up spring game

PULLMAN – It was a well-rested group of Washington State University football players who took the field Thursday for what was supposed to be the final spring practice.

The reason the Cougars were well-rested was because their Tuesday workout was canceled, replaced by a final practice to be held 6 a.m. Monday.

WSU will hold its spring game Saturday evening in Martin Stadium.

Just how well did the refreshed group do? The results were mixed.

“From an injury perspective and getting some work done, for the 13th practice of spring ball, that part was good,” WSU coach Paul Wulff said. “We failed in some stressful situations at certain positions, but we were lacking some guys. We just didn’t step up with the guys who had the opportunity today.”

Both sides of the ball were without players who’ve been starting much of spring. The offense was without tackle Wade Jacobson (inflamed leg), center Andrew Roxas (high ankle sprain) and receiver Gino Simone (ankle sprain); the defense missed linebacker Alex Hoffman-Ellis (high ankle) and three linemen who have been gone for long periods because of academic commitments. The offense seemed to be more affected.

“Defensively, I felt like we were pretty active all day,” Wulff said. “They seemed to be on top of it, that was really good to see.”

Saturday’s scrimmage will start at 5:30 and will be televised in the Spokane area on SWX.