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Princeton University Athletics
Players Mentioned
Football Opens Spring Ball Early, Looks Forward To Legacy Bowl In Japan
February 27, 2015 | Football
As reported earlier, the Tigers will conclude their 12-session spring season in Japan, with three practices during the week and then a showdown with the Kwansei Gakuin University Fighters in the first Legacy Bowl, held March 21.
Because that game is being played earlier than the traditional Spring Game over the last decade, there is another nuance to this practice season.
It isn't spring. And these days, it isn't warm.
But Princeton doesn't care. This is another step towards trying to reclaim the Ivy League Championship.
Spring football began Feb. 27 at 3:30 pm for Princeton, which is coming off a 5-5 record during the 2014 season. Princeton will practice eight times on its own campus before heading to Japan over the weekend of March 14-15.
There is plenty to accomplish in all areas throughout the spring, but most observers will keep their eye on the quarterback position. Seniors Quinn Epperly, the 2013 Bushnell Cup recipient as the Offensive Player of the Year, and Connor Michelsen finished their careers last season, which opens the door for the likes of (among others) Kedric Bostic, Chad Kanoff and Jon Lovett.
Young skill players will also have an early opportunity to gain more time in the offense. Sophomore James Frusciante led all returning receivers with 36 catches for 334 yards and a touchdown, while classmates Joe Rhattigan and AJ Glass will both have significant opportunities in the backfield during the spring.
There are more defensive returners, though Princeton will need to replace reigning Bushnell Cup recipient Mike Zeuli, as well as fellow inside linebacker Garrit Leicht. Sophomore Rohan Hylton is coming off an All-Ivy season and figures to be a strong presence inside, and classmate RJ Paige could also factor in the mix there.
Princeton is looking for big strides from its defensive end duo of Ty Desiré and Kurt Holuba, as well as improved play from the defensive backfield.
PRACTICE SCHEDULE
1 – Feb. 27, 3 pm
2 – Feb. 28, 10 am
3 – March 3, 4:40 pm
4 – March 5, 4:40 pm
5 – March 7, 10 am
6 – March 9, 4:40 pm
7 – March 11, 4:40 pm
8 – March 13, 6:30 am
PRACTICES 9-11 WILL BE IN JAPAN
Legacy Bowl – March 21 vs the Kwansei Gakuin University Fighters
Any local coaches who wish to attend a spring practice, please email Mike Cerullo at mcerullo@princeton.edu.