The Portland State Vikings football team began its first spring practice under new head coach Chris Fisk on April 7 at Stott Community Field. Around 70 players, including 25 newcomers, participated in the session as the team adjusted to a new coaching staff and updated offensive and defensive schemes.
This transition marks a significant period for the program as players and coaches work to establish expectations and learn each other’s styles. Fisk said after the two-hour workout, “It was good to be out here and be in helmets and get familiar with each other. There are a lot of things to work out. Practice wasn’t as smooth as you would hope, but I don’t think it ever is.”
Fisk emphasized that energy and effort are crucial during this early stage of preparation, especially with many transfers joining the roster. “We saw great attitudes and good effort today. We have a lot of fundamentals to work on. That’s always where you are at this time of the year,” he said. He added that both returning players and newcomers face challenges learning new systems: “That process takes time.” The goal for this week, according to Fisk, is for everyone to understand their roles: “I hope we come through this week learning a lot about each other and get to week two in a good spot.” Practice will continue Thursday morning.
The offense returns several experienced players, including all three quarterbacks who saw significant action last season—John-Keawe Sagapolutele, Tyrese Smith, and Gabe Downing—as well as top running back Delon Thompson. Two leading receivers (Terence Loville and Cru Newman) also return alongside tight end Tanner Beaman who is recovering from injury.
Fisk provided detailed assessments of position groups ahead of spring ball: He described Tristan Lewis’s leadership potential on the offensive line; praised transfer Mo Othman’s athleticism; called tight end Beaman “a special player”; compared receiver Cru Newman favorably with NFL player Cooper Kupp; highlighted running back Thompson’s talent; noted Derrick Blanche Jr.’s quickness; predicted Niall Raby could become an impact player; confirmed Micah Avery will miss spring due to injury.
The team’s full schedule includes practices throughout April into early May with scrimmages planned at Kiggins Bowl on May 2 and Hillsboro Stadium on May 8.
