As fall edges nearer, so does the start of the Lions 2012 football season and head coach Ron Roberts’ debut.

Until then, the Lions are taking the necessary steps to make sure they are prepared for the season. The squad reports for fall practice today before hitting the field for the first time tomorrow, starting Fall Camp.

Fall camp is set to last until August 26. The team will open the first two days in just helmets and, as camp progresses, the team will practice in full pads for the first time on August 5. Through the duration of camp the Lions will conduct three scrimmages: August 11 at 10 a.m., August 18 at 6:50 p.m. and a final scrimmage on August 23 at 6:50 p.m. which has been designated “Student Night,” where students can come out and support the Lions.

“I just want the students support,” said Roberts. “This is their team, their university and ultimately, they’re going to provide that atmosphere that will make Strawberry Stadium a tough place to play come fall.”   

All three scrimmages will be held in the newly revamped Strawberry Stadium. Roberts likes where his team stands coming off of a successful spring, heading into fall camp and getting one step closer to opening day with the team.

“I think we have made tremendous progress,” stated Roberts in an interview at SLC Media Day. “We asked them to make a huge commitment to be here and closing the gap from 3-8 to the top of the Southland Conference. Everything has gone pretty smoothly.”   

The Lions open the season on the road on Sept. 1 versus SEC newcomer Missouri. For the Lions’ complete fall camp schedule, visit www.lionsports.net.