Alex Ruiz
Kadie Smith
It’s Day 15 here at BC Lions training camp, and the guys were eager to get back on the field after a day of much needed rest.
Fresh off their comeback win in Edmonton on Friday night, the Lions hit the field for their two-hour practice with some serious energy, running through their plays with speed and aggression.
Head trainer Bill Reichelt had the team rehab in the pool Saturday evening rather than doing a standard run-down on the field to help the guys unwind. Add to that, the fact that we’re in the final week of camp and the first regular season game is just over a week away, and you’ve got one amped-up pride.
“They understand that we’re at numbers where they’re close to making the football team,” said head coach Mike Benevides. “Also, they understand how important these next five days are. You can see a rejuvenation in enthusiasm and focus.”
Of Note for Day 14:
With the vets getting in more reps as we inch closer to the final cut down, the rookies will have to work overtime to stand out, and they got a taste of the work that lies ahead of them today as the big boys came prepared.
Offence:
Andrew Harris showed his skill as a running back today finding open routes and dancing around defenders during the team periods and consistenly getting to the outside. Harris was also effective as an extra block for the offense during passing plays. 
Stefan Logan, was also lethal on the run today, using his speed and quick footing to dart in and out through defenders, and when #10 finds an open route, there’s no catching him.
Nyere Aumaitre and Jovan Olafioye did a great job laying huge blocks for the offence, and clearing plenty of space for Harris and Logan in the team periods.
Stephen Adekolu played a prominent role today. After his successful showing in the Lions win over the Esks, Adekolu was given more reps, and the rookie receiver did not disappoint. He had several key catches in the team periods, including a high catch through double coverage.
“Stephen is a tremendous athlete,” said Benevides. “He was the top receiver in the [Edmonton] game; he made an unbelievable catch, and he’s earning the respect of his coaches.”
Defence:
Chris Olson and Khalif Mitchell were on another level for the defence today, shedding just about every block in both the team periods and the one-on-ones and continually beating their man to put pressure on the quarterback.
Dante Marsh had a strong practice with an interception and a passbreak up in the team periods, while Tony Burnett was solid in man-on-man coverage, twice streaking across to strip receivers.
Another strong spot for the defence was Adam Bighill. The veteran linebacker had some big blocks in the team periods and provided solid run protection against the standout running backs.
Watching:
Matt McGarva (knee), Emmanuel Arceneaux (hand), Alex Hoffman-Ellis (groin), and Josh Johnson did not participate today.