Virginia Tech quarterback not playing like a freshman
ORLANDO — In watching tape of Virginia Tech quarterback Josh Jackson,
Dan Hammerschmidt has seen the redshirt freshman grow up this year.
Hammerschmidt, Oklahoma State’s safeties coach, is preparing his crew for the physicality Virginia Tech presents, including that of the 6-foot-1, 215-pound Jackson, a native of Ann Arbor, Michigan.
“The quarterback’s a young guy, but you can tell they’ve coached him well,” Hammerschmidt said. “He’s getting better as the season goes on. You can see that. And he’s a tough kid. He’s doing what he’s supposed to do.”
For the season, Jackson has thrown for 2,743 yards with 19 touchdowns and eight interceptions, completing 60.3 percent of his
passes. He has rushed for 274 yards.
Hammerschmidt spent seven years coaching at Duke, regularly facing Frank Beamer-coached Virginia Tech teams, and he recognizes the traditional physical nature of this Hokies team in its second year under Justin Fuente.
“Typical Virginia Tech,” he said. “They’re wellcoached up front. I’ve been around the ACC. Their offense has always been known to be a physical, well-coached group. Same thing. No change.”
Cowboys, Hokies enjoy day with local kids
After a couple of days to enjoy the adventures of Orlando themselves, with trips to Universal and Disney World, Oklahoma State and Virginia Tech players got a chance to do something special for the local community on Tuesday.
The teams took part in the Day for Kids at Andretti Indoor Karting and Games, which features two unique go-kart tracks, virtual-reality racing and several other interactive games.
One player from each team was matched up with a child to spend the morning with.
“Anytime you get an opportunity to hang out with some kids, do some rides, do some go-karts and some bowling, it’s always a good experience,” OSU quarterback Mason Rudolph said. “You feel like you can make an impact in a short period of time with them.”
Glenn Spencer salutes wife with video before her final game
ESPN college football sideline reporter Jeannine Edwards, the wife of Oklahoma State defensive coordinator Glenn Spencer, will call her final game when Ohio State and Southern Cal face off in the Cotton Bowl Classic at 7:30 p.m. Friday in Arlington, Texas.
To salute his wife's remarkable career, Spencer recorded a video for ESPN.
“I know you didn’t want a big deal made of this, but sorry,” Spencer said in the video. “I’ve known you for six years and you’ve been a consummate pro. I’ve admired your work ethic. Everybody in my profession speaks so highly of you, and that’s something to be proud of.
“I’m looking forward to some nights now when we can see each other, and we’re not passing each other in the airports.”