April 5, 2005
EVANSTON, Ill. -- The Wildcats practiced outside for the first time this spring season, with fifth-year senior quarterback Brett Basanez taking snaps under the lights of the practice field. NUsports.com caught up with Basanez after the demanding practice.
NUsports.com: How did the winter conditioning program go for you and the rest of your team?
Brett Basanez: It went well. It helped our mental toughness and stressed what we need to focus on, and that is the fourth quarter.
NUsports.com: What do you feel are the key objectives for the offense this spring?
Basanez: The offense needs to mesh and keep getting better. The offensive line needs to come together and become a core.
NUsports.com: Most outsiders seem concerned about NU's offensive line, with three veterans graduating. What are your thoughts on some of the returnees who are going to help rebuild the line?
Basanez: The offensive line is going to be good. Just in these first five days of practice, they have made strides. (Zach) Strief, Trevor (Rees) and Dylan (Thiry) are going to be the nucleus for the other guys.
NUsports.com: Several of your top receivers are back this year, led by Mark Philmore. Talk about that group and their improvement in the recent years.
Basanez: This is the best core of guys I have played with, and they need to be healthy. It is great when you get younger guys coupled with experienced guys. You have seven guys who can make the plays.
NUsports.com: How do you view the running back competition?
Basanez: That is just what it is; a competition. Terrell (Jordan) is out, so it is anyone's position. I don't think anyone has been ordained the golden calf. We are waiting for people to step up.
NUsports.com:What are your personal goals this spring?
Basanez: Just to get better everyday and fine-tune everything. I need to bring the team together.
Practice Notes: The Wildcats' next spring session is 3:30 p.m. Thursday.