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Atkins Blog: Jets up Friday

Posted Aug 8, 2012


RELATED: Atkings Blog: Training Camp underway

This past weekend we held our first Scrimmage and Mock game. I heard that there were more than 6,000 fans that came out to get a first look our team. They were cheering and screaming our names and we appreciated the support. As players it means a great deal for us to know that the fans and the city are behind us this season.

The Scrimmage and Mock game give us players a chance to showcase our skills to the coaches and fans. For coaches it gives them a chance to put players in game situations and to challenge us. Everyone should have left the stadium Saturday evening with a sense of where we are and what it’s going to take to get us where we want to be.

This week is exciting for us as players; the Jets are coming to town Friday night and this give us an opportunity line up against a real opponent. I know guys are itching to hit somebody else. It’s a lot different from hitting a teammate.

For a lot of players this preseason game will be their first NFL action. I know our locker room is going to be filled with anticipation and excitement, as guys begin to live out their childhood dreams. But at the same time you can get a sense of nervous jitters, because of the magnitude of playing in the NFL.  As the dream gets closer to becoming a reality, you are trying not to have mental errors and on every play you are fighting to make the team.   

I remember the jitters from my rookie year like it was yesterday. I had to ease my mind; I told myself to go all out and play 100 miles per hour even if I made a mistake, I was going to do it fast and correct it on the next play. At the end of the day as long as I knew I did my best I couldn't be disappointed at myself.   

My teammates and I are expecting the WHO DEY Nation to come out and support us against the Jets Friday night!

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