Player Q&A: James Evans, D’Angelo Ponds discuss second week of Indiana football fall camp

Indiana football in underway for week two of the fall camp as the start of the 2024 season quickly approaches.

Indiana football head coach Curt Cignetti spoke with the media on Monday and Indiana football players James Evans and D’Angelo Ponds spoke with the media on Tuesday afternoon to discuss the second week of fall camp.

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Below are the video Q&As from both players in addition to some key quotes.

James Evans | Sr. | P

On his leadership role going into the season…

JE: The biggest thing is being more vocal. I’ve always tried to do the right thing, lead by example, and how I conduct myself as far as my preparation while also trying to stay busy, while supporting the young guys and leading by example. 

On his growth from his freshman year…

JE: My first year everything was new to me. And with having good guys and good players around me, and getting experience in games and practice, I think I just grew mentally. I don’t think there’s a tremendous difference as far as my physical ability from year one to year four. But I think, mentally as far as my preparation, my routine, and the kind of confidence I bring to every game, it has definitely evolved positively.

On the transition from switching coaches…

JE: It’s been really good. Schematically for me, it’s a slight change, but more or less, the kick types are the same. So, it hasn’t been too great of a difference. I’ve really liked working with Coach (Grant) Cain so far. In December, when he was appointed as special teams coordinator, I reached out to a few of his older specialists he had in the past and they all spoke very fondly of him, so it’s been a great experience so far.

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D’Angelo Ponds | So. | DB

On his mindset that sets him up for success…

DP: My mindset is to just come in and take it one day at a time. Get 1% better, just be the best version of myself and just find a way to get better because that’s what separates me.

On how he adjusted as a freshman and now adjusting to a new school…

DP: I feel like coming in as a freshman you definitely have to earn your stripes and show everybody that you can come in and play and that’s what I did, so now I’m here.

On gelling with the other guys in the secondary…

DP: I think it’s coming along well we’ve just got to focus on communicating and that’s what we’re working on now and we’re coming on pretty good now.

SEE ALSO: Coach Q&A: Indiana football head coach Curt Cignetti provides update on fall camp

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