Spring in the air for EWU football

Eastern Washington’s pursuit of a fourth straight Big Sky Conference football title will begin next week.

The Eagles will hold the first of 14 spring football practices on April 2, coach Beau Baldwin announced on Wednesday.

Most sessions will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with scrimmages set for April 11 and 18. The annual Red-White Game is scheduled for April 25, but the Eagles will hold two more practices the following week.

Eastern opens the season on Sept. 5 at Oregon.

Baldwin expects about 90 players, including 48 returning lettermen.

Players recently completed winter conditioning; they are on spring break this week

Spring ball holds several interesting storylines, including the competition at quarterback following the departure of two-time Payton Award runner-up Vernon Adams Jr.; and the elevation of Jeff Schmedding to defensive coordinator.

Last year, Eastern finished 7-1 in the Big Sky and 11-3 overall after a 59-46 loss to Illinois State in the quarterfinals of the FCS playoffs.

The spring game is held before the 34th Annual Killin Dinner, Dance and Auction, which is the featured event of “Eagle Week.”