Eight days of camp have elapsed for the 2013 Youngstown State University Football program.  So far, there have been no major injuries that will sideline a player for the season, but there are a few bumps and bruises to report as the team prepares for its first scrimmage action Saturday morning.

Demond Hymes (below) rolled an ankle during a red zone drill on Thursday morning. Hymes will be evaluated before an official status will be reported.  At the team’s evening stretch later the same day, Hymes was on crutches and the depth chart for first year running backs coach, Eric Gallon, took another twist.

“Having depth at running back is a must and a key for any program”, remarked Gallon.  “Hymes had some  swelling today, but I can’t really comment on what his status is.  I’m hopeful that he can bounce back.”

Gallon (above) commented on the depth chart situation for his running backs.

“The depth chart has changed quite a bit.  People are up and down.  I am looking for consistency in not only our running game, but also our passing game.  The running backs have to be able to step up and protect our quarterback against blitzing defenses. The depth chart changes based on performance, and there is a lot of ‘what have you done for me lately?’ involved with that.

Joining Hymes on crutches is Donald D’Alessio.  The junior free safety is not expected to miss any regular season action but will not be rushed back anytime soon.

“It was a good day today, but obviously we are worried about injuries and keeping our guys healthy”, said Coach Eric Wolford.

” {Dale} Peterman looks like he will be back for conference play.  D’Alessio should be back in time to start the regular season.  Tre’ Moore, John James and Justin Gallegos are going to have to be ready to step in.  Plus you have to remember we have Jameel Smith and David Rivers, and Jamarious Boatwright can play corner too.  We know we will get those guys {Peterman and D’Alessio} back, so all these other guys getting some experience is a bonus.”

The Penguins, picked to finish fifth in the Missouri Valley preseason poll, are mixing it up at practices already.  There is a ton of live hitting going on and Wolford seems very enthusiastic to get to Saturday.

“I’m very excited about where we are through eight practices.  This is probably the farthest we have been at this point since I have been here.  Injuries are a part of the game, the next guy has to step up, and that establishes quality depth.”

The Penguins open the 2013 season at home against Dayton on a Thursday night.  They will then host Morehead State before traveling to East Lansing for a matchup with the Michigan State Spartans.  This is the first time the FCS games come before the FBS game.  When asked how to keep his team focused on the first two opponents without looking toward Michigan State, Wolford had a good reply.

“We have never won a football game against Dayton.  That should be decent motivation.”

The Penguins are 0-9 all time against the Flyers with the most recent loss coming in 1977, a 27-23 setback.