August 9, 2012

COMMERCE, Texas -- A&M-Commerce hit the field for the first time in 2012 as the Lions opened up their summer workouts with a 9:30 am practice on the turf at Memorial Stadium.

Weather conditions tried to cooperate as much as possible as temperatures lingered in the low 80s as the Lions ran through 90 minutes worth of drills in their respective positions. Helmets and shorts were the attire of the day as a number of players got their first reps as Lions. 

A number of positions will have intriguing battles as the season progresses, especially on the offensive side of the ball. Quarterback will be one of those key battles as the Lions have eight quarterbacks in camp battling for the starting position. The offensive line will also be a key area to watch as a myriad of injuries in 2011 decimated the position, which was remedied this year by a number of key transfers and incoming freshman.

The running back and wide receiver positions have a number of returners, but will have a pair of substantial roles to fill replacing Marcus Graham and Taylor Fore, both of which closed out their careers among the all-time greats at their respective positions.

On the defensive side of the ball, A&M-Commerce shouldn't have too many question marks - just looking to see who will step up. The Lions return the majority of their starters at defensive line, linebackers and secondary and are hoping the experience gained in 2011 will pay dividends heading forward.

We are just 23 days from the season opener against Southeastern Oklahoma on September 1 at Memorial Stadium. Season tickets are now on sale through the A&M-Commerce Athletic Department by calling (903) 886-5558 or sending in the season ticket order form. Ticket information for the game against UT-San Antonio at the Alamodome and the 2012 Harvey Martin Classic at the Lone Star Football Festival in Cowboys Stadium is also available through the Athletic Department.