Marshall Football: Practice report day 10

Former Penn State wide receiver Devon Smith is officially a member of the Thundering Herd. The big news out of today's practice was Smith's enrollment at Marshall, one of the Nittany Lions top pass catchers last year. During the 2011 season Smith hauled in 25 passes for 402 yards and two touchdowns. As a junior Smith has one year of eligibility remaining but two seasons to use it. With wide receivers Aaron Dobson, Andre Booker, and Antavious Wilson coming back for their senior seasons Smith could take a redshirt this year and return for 2013.

Besides Smith's arrival, Marshall's depth at defensive tackle was another major story today. Steve Dillon suffered a knee injury during practice which lead to more first team reps for Blake Brooks. According to the practice notebook of Charleston Gazette reporter Doug Smock, head coach Doc Holliday did not believe the injury was serious.

Smock also profiled a member of the Herd's defensive backfield, sophomore Keith Baxter. In the article Baxter admits he was not prepared for the rigors of college football as a freshman. After a good summer in the weight room the son of former Marshall wide receiver Keith Baxter Sr. is ready for an impact season.  

A major area of concern in training camp has been punter. With the departure of four year starter Kase Whitehead Marshall is without an experienced replacement for 2012. After a few shaky performances freshman Tyler Williams has tightened his grip on the starting job. Derrick Redd of the MU Sports Blog reports that Williams launched four punts over 50 yards today.

Marshall returns to practice for a single session Friday before Saturday's scrimmage.