Storm accomplish goals in scrimmage against Orlando

Published on January 25, 2004 under Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Tampa Bay Storm News Release


TAMPA, FL -- For the first time since the start of training camp, the Tampa Bay Storm lined up against players with jerseys other than Storm jerseys Sunday afternoon when the Tampa Bay Storm and Orlando Predators faced off in a two-and-a-half hour scrimmage.

And the results, according to Storm head coach Tim Marcum, were good.

"I was pleased with the fact that we played hard and played with intensity," Marcum said of the workout. "For the most part we accomplished what we wanted to. We didn't get anybody hurt and we were able to get through it."

After a session of one-on-one work, the Storm and Predators took part in a simulated game-type setting, with each team running approximately 55 plays offensively. During the team drills the Storm offense outscored the Predators' offense, 50-33.

All three Storm quarterbacks saw action, with Shane Stafford and Stoney Case each engineering multiple scoring drives.

"I thought that all of the quarterbacks did a good job," said Marcum. "We got to see a lot of people. We played every player (that dressed), especially in the secondary. I think that the film will prove that we did do some good things. Del Lee did a nice job and so did Shea Showers. Those veterans that have been in this league a while looked like it, and some of our rookies looked like rookies. I was also pleased with the pass protection. We protected our passer pretty well."

The Storm played without two of their top pass rushers, as Kelvin Kinney and Shawn King both sat out the workout with pulled groins. The Predators were also without some of their key players, including defensive specialist Kenny McEntyre and offensive specialist Travis McGriff.

Overall, Marcum was pleased with what he saw of his squad.

"We're looking to find out whether we can replace the two rush guys that we lost, the two defensive backs, and the quarterback. And I think the answer is so far, so good. It's only a scrimmage, but I liked the way things turned out. We weren't trying to win and (Orlando head coach) Jay (Gruden) wasn't trying to win. We were trying to get everybody a look, and we were able to do that."

The Storm return to the practice field on Monday morning with a single practice session beginning at 10:00 am at the St. Pete Times Forum. The Storm resume two-a-day practices on Tuesday before concluding training camp on Saturday, January 31.

The Storm open the season on Sunday, February 8, when they host the Orlando Predators at 3:00 pm in the St. Pete Times Forum. Season and individual game tickets are on sale now at the St. Pete Times Forum Box Office. Tickets may also be purchased by calling (813) 301-6600 or online at www.tampabaystorm.com.

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Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from January 25, 2004


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