Even though it's typical of defenses to be ahead of offenses early in college football practice schedules, UND's much maligned defense will be happy with any mini victories.
UND's defense was the standout performer Saturday morning during the program's first practice of fall camp.
"Collectively, we brought intensity," UND inside linebacker Garrison Goodman said. "Our linebackers, especially, are ahead of the game. There's a lot of experience across the board. That showed today. Not a lot of mistakes."
The starting defense practiced in full health for the first time in almost a year as Goodman returned from a foot injury and cornerback Daryl Brown also was a full participant after missing a handful of games in 2012.
"I thought our tempo was good," UND coach Chris Mussman said. "I was impressed with the defense. I really liked what I saw from that side of the ball. Offensively, we saw some typical Day 1 stuff."
ADVERTISEMENT
The tight battle for the No. 1 quarterback job continued between a pair of redshirt freshmen -- Joe Mollberg and Ryan Bartels.
"We have some tweaks to work on," Mollberg said. "But everyone was excited and enthused and that's all you can ask for today. It was a very good first day."
Mollberg said his relationship with Bartels has remained strong through the position competition.
"Me and Ryan came in together, and we'll go out together, no matter what happens," Mollberg said. "It's going to make us both better. We're going to be stronger men and better people from it."
Mollberg said his receiving corps, led by standout Greg Hardin, will help make the process easier.
"I think they're OK," he joked. "No, they're good guys and what they bring to the field is pretty incredible."
There were few surprises Saturday morning. The entire freshmen class has reported and the team experienced limited attrition.
Cornerback Dan Konowalski and wide receiver Anthony Fletcher were absent due to academic reasons. Both are redshirt freshmen. Konowalski was expected to battle for playing time, while the young Fletcher had yet to challenge for playing time at a deep position.
ADVERTISEMENT
On the injury front, defense tackle Mike Edwards and wide receiver R.J. McGill were dressed and running on the sideline but not participating in drills.
The team will practice again at 9:15 a.m. today, followed by NCAA Education meetings in the afternoon.
"It feels good to be out here," Goodman said. "We have to keep building from here on. We have to get better, and we will get better."
Miller reports on sports. Call him at (701) 780-1121; (800) 477-6572, ext. 1121; or send e-mail to tmiller@gfherald.com .
