NATCHITOCHES – Structurally, not much will change for the Northwestern State football team between its first and second scrimmages of fall camp.
 
As the Demons prepare for their second preseason scrimmage Saturday morning, there is one slight difference coach Brad Laird is looking for at Turpin Stadium.
 
"Growth," Laird said. "We want to see who takes that step forward from our first preseason game to the next. We still want to be consistent, and I think we will be more consistent than we were in scrimmage one. This is another opportunity for us to take a look at our team as we continue to zero in on the 68 or 70 guys who will get on the plane to Montana in two weeks."
 
A week ago, the Demon offense enjoyed a fast start before the Purple Swarm defense found its footing in the situational portion of the scrimmage.
 
When the 9:30 a.m. start arrives, Laird and his staff will keep an eye on both sides and see if a typical second scrimmage emerges.
 
The Demons will aim to run approximately 70 or so plays, focusing on a quality over quantity approach. NSU will keep the same approach to special teams, working them in situationally as it focuses on the Sept. 3 season opener at Montana.
 
"You see it often – one side doesn't have the first scrimmage it wants to have and comes back with a more consistent performance the next week," he said. "Again, the bottom line is we want our guys to be consistent with their effort and attitude."
 
The scrimmage is open to the public.