Elon, N.C. – The Elon University Football team began spring ball Monday with a morning practice. Fresh off of the program's fourth trip to the FCS playoffs, Elon will look to build on the momentum of a top 25 season.
 
"We had a good start today with good energy," fifth-year Head Coach Tony Trisciani said. "The guys were excited and happy to be out here. When you are just in helmets on day one with no protective equipment, it's all about alignment, assignments, technique and athleticism. We have some new wrinkles and they did a good job of handling those adjustments. We had explosive plays on both sides of the ball and that's what you get when you have a good football team."
 
OFFENSE
The offense was efficient and balanced a year ago, but must find playmakers to replace personnel losses at quarterback and wide receiver. Elon does return seven starters on offense.
 
"We want to see the receivers develop," Trisicani said. "There are some new faces but there are some veterans there too with Chandler Brayboy and Jordan Bonner. It was nice to see Jamarien Dalton make a big play on the sideline today."
 
The offensive line returns a veteran group but will also look to fill a hole left by the departure of center Michael Purcell.
 
"We want to see the offensive line gel together," Trisicani said. "We have a new offensive line coach and Alex Stadler has been doing a great job with that group. Seeing that unit gel together is important."
 
DEFENSE
Elon's defense was opportunistic and dominant at times in 2022, but the Phoenix returns just four starters. Elon was hit hardest by losses among the secondary and linebacker groups.
 
"We are young on the back end, but talented," Trisiciani said. "It's going to be real fun watching that group taking advantage of their opportunities this spring and competing against a receiver group trying to do the same thing. Our linebackers are a talented group, but also a new group. We are excited for the opportunity of growth."
 
SPECIAL TEAMS
Elon had one of the strongest special teams units in the country in 2022 including first-team All-American kicker Skyler Davis. But the Phoenix will replace him and break in a new punter as well.
 
"There is talent at special teams and it's a 'next man up' mentality. They are going to be coached hard and pushed every day. We found success on special teams today. We did a good job with our flex kicks and pressure situations."
 
ELON FOOTBALL
Elon went 8-4 in 2022 and 6-2 in CAA Football play, ending the season ranked No. 17 in the country. The team earned a bid to the FCS playoffs for the first time since 2018 and defeated three ranked teams during the regular season, including handing William & Mary its only loss of the regular season. Elon went a perfect 5-0 at home and ended 2022 with a six-game home unbeaten streak, the longest in Rhodes Stadium history.
 
RENEW YOUR SEASON TICKETS TODAY
Season ticket renewals are now available online at ElonTickets.com. Renew by March 31 to take advantage of 'early bird' pricing as a thank you for your loyalty and continued support of Elon Football.
 
For questions or to request a seat location change, please contact the Elon Ticket Office at 336-276-6750.