MOBILE, Ala. — South Alabama’s defensive line drew praise from head coach Joey Jones after a physical Tuesday morning spring practice that ran more than two hours and featured contact in both position and team drills.
Defensive Front Stands Out
“It was lively,” Jones told AL.com. “I thought the defensive front really stood out today. I thought the guys across there were playing harder and really put pressure on the quarterback and disrupted the run. I thought they played really well today and it was good to see them get after it.”
The Jaguar defense is adjusting to changes made on the defensive coaching staff during the offseason, and Jones said he has been pleased with the unit’s progress. On offense, players continue to refine their understanding of the spread offense the team installed last season.
Experience and Depth on Offense
Jones said the experience on the offensive side of the ball is helping the Jaguars as they work on new elements of the scheme.
“I think offensively, even though we’re doing some different things, I think the fact they have experience helps,” Jones said. “Our offensive line is working really hard. For the first time we’re going to have real depth there.”
Jones said he expects to enter the fall with 10 offensive linemen capable of playing once injured linemen Ucambre Williams and Shaun Artz return. He also noted that several receivers are veterans, including some in their fifth year in the program.
At quarterback, Ross Metheny, who started last season, is competing with Brandon Bridge. “We’re developing depth there and there’s a tight race,” Jones said. “The competition is good.”
Jones also praised the leadership on the team, saying the players have continued to work hard as the spring schedule winds down.
Spring Schedule
South Alabama has five practices remaining this spring, including the Red-Blue Spring Game on Saturday, April 6. Jones said the coaching staff will use the final sessions to get as much physical work as possible, providing film to evaluate players heading into fall camp.
The Jaguars return to the practice field Thursday at 6 a.m. and will scrimmage Saturday. Next week, the team will practice Tuesday and hold a Thursday workout in shorts before the spring game.
South Alabama, a member of the Sun Belt Conference, plays its home games at Ladd-Peebles Stadium.
