Tulane marches toward season opener

NEW ORLEANS – The 2017 Tulane football season is just 18 days away, and the Green Wave continue to rush toward the opening game on Saturday, Sept. 2 against Grambling State.

Tulane held its 14th practice of the preseason Tuesday morning at the indoor facility of the New Orleans Saints. As they have in many workouts during the first two weeks of camp, the Wave improved their technique during individual unit drills, competed one-on-one and seven-on-seven in sessions of offense against defense, and covered special teams.

Second-year head coach Willie Fritz and his staff relish the opportunity to teach technique and effort during practice. With veterans who have a year of experience in the system, progress in the preseason moves at a faster pace, with less focus on the general facets of the program.

“We’re on pace right now,” Fritz said. “We’re doing a good job with installation, and I’m happy with where we are right now. The guys understand our philosophy and what we’re doing schematically in all three phases. That certainly helps to make a better practice.”

Tuesday’s practice included the usual 11-on-11 team session at the end, as both the offense and defense continue to carry out the installation of their respective packages. The workout ended with an intense one-on-one goal line drill, drawing spirited reactions from the players and coaches on the sidelines.

The Green Wave return to the practice field at Yulman Stadium Wednesday morning. Practices are closed to the public.

Season tickets, mini-plans and single-game tickets are on sale now, and can be purchased by calling 504-861-WAVE (9283), logging onto TulaneTix.com or visiting the ticket office at the James W. Wilson Jr. Center. Season tickets that includes all six home games during the 2017 season start as low as $200 for a single book and $300 for a family four-pack. Mini plans include the 3rd & Goal package for $75 and the Homecoming & Lagniappe package for $65. Seats are available in locations throughout Yulman Stadium.

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