MOBILE, Ala. — South Alabama reached the midpoint of spring football practice Thursday with its seventh session, as new offensive coordinator Robert Matthews continued installing his offense.
The Jaguars spent the first half of practice on individual skill drills before moving into offense-versus-defense work that included third-down, red-zone and two-minute situations.
Situational Work
During a period of about 20 minutes, the offense faced third-and-medium situations against the defense. The first- and second-team offenses each also got a red-zone series. The second unit scored when quarterback Trey Fetner found Greg Hollinger on a crossing route at the back of the end zone.
Later, C.J. Bennett directed the first-team offense in a two-minute drill that simulated a two-point deficit with just over a minute remaining and one timeout. Bennett completed a pass to Jereme Jones, Demetre Baker followed with a long run, and Michel Chapuseaux made a long field goal to finish the drive.
Install About Halfway Done
Matthews estimated the offensive installation is about as far along as the spring calendar.
“Right now I would say we are probably halfway done,” Matthews said. “We are really focusing on the fundamentals, which was an emphasis that coach Jones wanted to address in the spring. What we’ve been working on is the tempo, the base protections and base runs, and trying to make sure that we get guys into the right spot.”
He said the early start to spring drills will give players several months, from the end of March until fall camp opens Aug. 1, to study the system on their own.
Matthews, hired by head coach Joey Jones from Southern Miss, said the players have accepted the change in scheme.
“I think the kids are fully in, they are really trying to do what we are asking them to do, and they have been displaying a great attitude. That’s a reflection of what has gone on here before,” Matthews said. “We have a long way to go, we are not a finished product by any means and we make mistakes every day, but you just work to try and correct those and push forward.”
Shift Toward Game Situations
Matthews said the first half of spring was devoted to fundamentals and that the remaining practices leading to the annual spring game will emphasize game-like situations, including short yardage, goal line, red zone, two-minute and four-minute work.
“The teams that are prepared the best are the ones that usually end up executing, and we want to make sure that we are giving our kids a chance,” he said.
Lavender Stands Out
Asked about individual progress, Matthews pointed to wide receiver Bryant Lavender.
“Bryant Lavender is having a really nice spring,” Matthews said. “From a wide receiver standpoint I think he has done a great job. He’s just a guy that has embraced a leadership role, he’s working hard and learning to play several different wide receiver positions. I hope the rest of the guys follow his lead.”
Up Next
South Alabama will hold a scrimmage open to the public at 2:45 p.m. Saturday.
