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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

EWU veterans Pavel, Vitto show poise

Two veteran players showed their poise Wednesday as the Eastern Washington football team neared the halfway point in spring drills.

For kicker/punter Jimmy Pavel, the challenge came from the elements, as a pleasant afternoon deteriorated into a blustery evening with wind gusts topping 20 miles per hour.

“There’s always a challenge involved in kicking,” Pavel said. “But it’s our job to take that into account.”

Pavel, who is competing for both the punting and kicking duties, said that “everything is feeling good and I’m trying to get into midseason form.”

For junior quarterback Anthony Vitto, the challenge came from the coaches, who added more game-situation drills during 7-on-7s.

For Vitto, who looked strong throughout Wednesday’s practice, the learning curve is decidedly less steep than last week. He hit wide receiver Brandon Kaufman over the top for a long TD, then found Kaufman again on a slant pattern that was perfectly executed.

“Today as a lot better day,” Vitto added. “I thought the offense look good; we we’re picking up blitzes and hitting our throws.”

Notes

RB Quincey Forte fielded punts in addition to his regular duties. … Friday’s scrimmage has been moved up to 3 p.m., although coach Beau Baldwin said the actual scrimmage portion won’t begin until about 3:45. … Tickets are still available for the 31st Orland Killing Dinner, Dance and Auction on April 28, following the Red and White Game. Cost for the dinner is $100 per individual, or $700 for a table of eight. The event starts with a social hour and auction at 4:30 p.m., followed by the dinner at 6:15. Besides online at www.goeags.com, tickets may also be obtained by calling (509) 359-2463 or (800) 648-7697.