Bits from the Third Day of USF Football Practice

The Bulls were in pads today as they practiced for the third time this spring, the first in full pads (first day for the 20 walk-on as well).  Holtz was pleased with the energy at the practice, continuing to state the leadership from the seniors and how well they were leading the younger players. 

WR Lindsey Lamar is moving back to running back, his original position, Holtz stated (thanks to Auman for the video after the practice).  Lamar, one of the fastest players in the conference, could be a huge weapon and the coaches want to find ways to get him the ball in space.  He also adds a veteran leadership presence in the backfield with Scott leaving early and the young running backs in the depth chart lacking experience.  Holtz also stated that Victor Marc, Terrence Mitchell, and Derrick Hopkisn, could all get a few snaps at the H-back position.  The H-back spot is a hybrid wide receiver/running back position that allows speed players to get the ball quickly or move out of the backfield into the open to use their speed.  Having such weapons on the roster gives the offense even more power. 

In the special teams unit, freshman Chris Veron, the back-up punter and real challenge to senior Justin Brockhaus-Kann, is still wearing a boot on his right foot and Holtz stated he was "horsing around the dorm" which led to the injury that could take him out of the spring.  Veron was in position to challenge for the punter job and will still be a factor in the fall, but walk-on freshman Mattias Ciabatti could now assert himself this spring with the door open.  Holtz also stated that freshman David Burdetsky is the man to beat at long snapper after Mike Walsh graduated.  Holtz stated he would have burned Burdetsky's redshirt last year if he needed to push him into action. 

It is good to see the team back in pads as they prepare for the football team and from listening to Holtz and seeing the recaps of the players, they are hungrier than ever.