Portland State Football will scrimmage during Friday morning's football practice. It will be the only significant scrimmage prior to the Spring Game on April 21 at Hillsboro Stadium.
 
The Vikings open practice at 9:30 a.m. on Friday at Stott Community Field. A scrimmage of approximately 60 plays will take place, including special teams, beginning near 10 a.m. A number of first unit players will be sitting out, making the scrimmage a big opportunity for younger players and backups to show out for the coaching staff.
 
"It will be the evaluation of a lot of young guys," said Viking Coach Bruce Barnum. "Some of them are being called on to play in the first group, and it could be the best thing to happen for them. We will see who shines tomorrow."
 
Barnum also said he looks forward to the development of their defensive system, anticipating more blitzing in the scrimmage than they have done in practice thus far.
 
Another area of interest comes from a pair of players who have made a position change. Junior Semaj Bolin and sophomore Jaden Casey have moved to slot receiver for the Vikings. Bolin, a former defensive back, is one of the fastest players on the team and also returns kicks. He saw brief duty at receiver late last season. Casey, a former quarterback, is playing the position for the first time.
 
"I've been pleased with the development of those two," said Barnum. "I'm very happy with where they are and what they have been doing in learning the position. Jaden made two big catches in practice just today."
 
Barnum also noted his quarterback play through the first two weeks of spring ball.
 
"Dante Chachere is looking stronger and the game has slowed down for him. That's noticeable. And I think Keegan Stancato gets the Most Improved Award at that position so far. He is playing really well," Barnum said.
 
Another veteran, linebacker Parker McKenna, is making a solid comeback from an injury that limited him to four games last season. "He has definitely played well and I like how he is acting and leading on the field," said Barnum.
 
SPRING GAME COMING: Portland State will host its annual Spring Football Game this Friday at Hillsboro Stadium at 10 a.m. Despite the unusual time, fans are encouraged top enjoy a big day of Viking Athletics as PSU Softball plays at Hillsboro beginning at 1 p.m… There will be free parking and free admission for the game. Concessions will also be available on site. Season ticket renewals will also take place at the Spring Football Game. The first 25 accounts to renew their tickets will receive a game-worn jersey… The Spring Game will run from 10 a.m. until noon. The football program will then host a post-game party meet-and-greet at the softball doubleheader. The softball team hosts Big Sky Conference foe Sacramento State in a doubleheader on Gordon Faber Field 4 at 1 p.m.