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Penguins easing into gear for final practice
youngstown
With one practice to go before Youngstown State’s spring game on Friday, head coach Bo Pelini and his Penguins are taking it a little easier.
“We’ve got most of our work in,” Pelini said. “Our numbers are down right now so we’re going to tailor it back a bit on Wednesday.
“I think we’ve had a pretty good go [this Spring] but at this time it’s hard. You do 15 practices and you’ve got some guys who are knicked up.”
One spot in particular with some of those bumps and bruises is the offensive line. Only nine healthy guys on the roster may make things a little difficult on Friday.
Left tackle Justin Spencer has been out the entire spring with a back injury. Pelini said since he already knows what Spencer brings to the table, it made sense to make sure Spencer is healthy for fall camp.
“Spencer could probably be practicing but he’s got enough experience,” Pelini said. “We wanted to give him the time for his body to rest.”
For Spencer, it hasn’t been easy having to watch practice three times a week instead of participating.
“It’s horrible,” Spencer said. “It’s miserable. Watching your guys go out there working hard every day and standing there watching. It’s definitely not as fun as playing but I’ll be back soon.”
Instead of lining up against defensive ends all day, Spencer has had to take on a role of instructor, giving out pointers where he can to his teammates.
“I just try to help the young guys,” Spencer said. “I give them tips on what they’re doing, how to improve their technique and helping with drills.
“I just try to help out as much as I can.”
The team has been cautious about Spencer’s rehab this spring. His lifting regimen isn’t nearly as strenuous and so he’s focused more on stamina.
“I’ve been working with [strength and conditioning coach Mark] Brandenstein a lot,” Spencer said. “He helps me get set up for workouts. It’s a lot of running and a little lifting. I’m trying to improve on cardio as much as I can.”
BUNDLE UP
If you’re heading out to Friday’s game, something more than a light jacket would probably be appropriate. Weather.com is predicting snow and wind, a high of 39 with a 90 percent chance of precipitation and winds reaching 24 mph.