Idaho coach Thomas Ford Jr. sets high expectations after first practice
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 30, 2026, 2:07 AM
Last updated Jul 30, 2026
College SportsIdaho football coach Thomas Ford Jr. addressed his team after the season-opening practice on July 29 in Moscow, Idaho, emphasizing the need for increased effort following a disappointing 4-8 season. Ford noted a drop in energy during the two-hour session and stated that merely 'okay' won't suffice moving forward. Starting quarterback Joshua Wood echoed the coach's sentiments, mentioning a lack of energy towards the end of practice. Despite some positive moments, like a 40-yard touchdown pass from Wood to wide receiver Marquawn McCraney, Ford underscored that improvement is necessary. Senior running back Art Williams and offensive lineman Howard Stedford are being eased back into practice after injuries. Freshman linebacker Geovoney Burks earned recognition for his performance in his first practice.
- •Ford emphasized higher expectations after a 4-8 season.
- •The team had a drop in energy during practice on July 29.
- •Wood completed a 40-yard touchdown pass to McCraney.
- •Williams and Stedford are easing back into practice after injuries.
- •Burks won the daily practice award in his first session.
- 2:07 AMYahoo Sports — Idaho coach Thomas Ford Jr. reinforces expectations after first practice: 'We have to work harder'
"Jul. 29—MOSCOW, Idaho — In addressing his team after practices, Idaho coach Thomas Ford Jr. frequently emphasizes the positives. But in his remarks following the 2026 season-opening practice Wednesday, Ford let the Vandals know if the glass was half full, that is no longer good enough. Coming off a 4-8 season, the goal now is to fill it to the rim. He addressed what he saw was a fall-off of ...
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