YSU's defense ahead of the game

YOUNGSTOWN — In their first afternoon practice of the fall, the Youngstown State offense not only had to go up against a talented defense, but temperatures nearing 90 degrees as well.

“When you get tired or you get hot, that’s when you find out who’s mature enough, who’s focused enough, disciplined enough to execute their football,” YSU head coach Bo Pelini said.

The offense, which is beginning to implement new schemes and formations on a daily basis now, is tasked with doing so against an “advanced” defense according to YSU defensive coordinator Carl Pelini.

“It’s a very veteran defense and we’re just so much further ahead,” Carl said. “We’re further than where we were last year. We’re playing faster because they’re not second-guessing their assignments.”