April 8, 2005
EVANSTON, Ill. -- Senior tackle Barry Cofield (Cleveland Heights, Ohio/Cleveland Heights) and senior end Loren Howard (Scottsdale, Ariz./Saguaro) will lead a defensive line that lost two starters. NUsports.com talked with Cofield about the competition for those two slots and the strides the defense has made so far this spring.
NUsports.com: Northwestern graduated both tackles, most notably Luis Castillo. You have moved over to tackle to fill that spot. How are you approaching the move from end to tackle?
Cofield: It is not that big of jump for me, because I have always felt that I was a tackle. I am very excited about the change, and feel that it was a good move for me.
NUsports.com: The defensive line has improved consistently every season. How do you see your unit continuing that progression this year?
Cofield: Coach Washington has taught us several new techniques, which have made significant differences. So, from a technique standpoint, we are more solid.
NUsports.com: How are the younger candidates for those two other slots performing?
Cofield: It is a heated battle. (Mark) Koehn, (David) Ngene, and (Dave) Harper are all working hard. None of them have a lot of game footage, so they know they are being judged by their spring performances.
NUsports.com: What are your personal goals for the spring season?
Cofield: Just to do some polishing and fine-tuning. I am physically in the best shape of my life, so I just need to stay healthy and keep learning. Right now, it is more of a mental battle than a physical one.
NUsports.com: How has your approach to spring football changed since your freshman year?
Cofield: My freshman year, I was out to prove myself, and try to earn a spot. Now, I study more film and work on my mental approach. I look forward to the season much more now.
Practice Notes: Practice on Friday was shorter in preparation for Saturday's scrimmage ... Saturday's practice will begin at approximately 10:30 a.m. followed by an intersquad scrimmage at 11:15. NU is hosting its annual spring Coaches' Clinic on Saturday. Registration begins at 8 a.m. with the clinic starting at 9.