CCU

Coastal Football Emphasizes 3rd Downs

CCU DICK'S Sporting Goods Day is Aug. 18 from 11 am-2 pm at Coastal Grand Mall; Fan Photo Day and Football 101 (Ladies Night) is set for Aug. 25

       

Two-time All-Big South offensive lineman Jamey Cheatwood.

Two-time All-Big South offensive lineman Jamey Cheatwood.

Aug. 14, 2012

CONWAY - For the second time in 14 preseason practices, the Coastal Carolina football team spent the majority of the team periods working on third down situations.

"These are critical downs that can change a game," said head coach Joe Moglia. "Last year our offense was third in the league but 80th in the nation in converting third downs. We have to get better in that phase. While our defense was pretty good on third downs, teams went for it 27 times on fourth down against us and converted nearly half of those. If you factor that, we were not really getting off the field like those third down numbers would suggest."

The ball was placed at various yard lines, but nearly all the plays were third and three situations. While the defense had the upper hand last Friday, the offense was much more successful in converting on Tuesday. If the defense made the stop, depending on the yard line, the offense would punt, go for it if it was close or kick a field goal.

"It is very important to know the down and distance and where you are on the field," Moglia said. "After that third down is over, two things have to happen. One, the offense needs to get to the line immediately to keep the pressure on the defense. Two, both the offense and defense have to get the special team units, either the punt/punt return or field goal/field goal block teams, on the field, get lined up and execute.

"This practice not only is about pride and winning that critical down, but also a great mental exercise to keep everyone alert and on the same page."

Coastal Carolina will have its final two-a-day session on Wednesday.

FOR THE FANS
Aug. 18 - CCU Dick's Sporting Goods Day (Coastal Grand Mall). 11 am-2 pm. Head Coach Joe Moglia will be in attendance to meet and greet the fans.

Aug. 20 - First day of classes at Coastal Carolina University.

Aug. 25 - Fan Photo Day from 4:30-6:30 pm at Brooks Stadium (Admission is Free).
Aug. 25 - Football 101: Ladies Night from 6-8 pm at Adkins Field House. While the event will begin at 6 pm, registration and social begins at 5:30 pm. For more information, contact Kevin Olivett at 843-349-2268.

Aug. 27 - First "Chanticleer Call-In" with head coach Joe Moglia and Matt Hogue. The show will be each Monday from 6-7 pm at Buffalo Wild Wings at Carolina Forest. Fans are encouraged to come to the restaurant and interact with Coach Moglia.