Notes from USF Practice - Day 1

Dontae Aycock is not as heavy as a lot of people thought at first. (Picture: www.usfnation.com)

The first day of practice is in the books for the USF Bulls and football is finally back in action for the Bulls and Coach Holtz. (click here for the video from Greg Auman).

Here are some highlights of the first day.

Coach Holtz helped clear up a mis-print in the media guide. Running back Dontae Aycock, who was listed at 253-pounds, is actually 233-pounds and in good shape. Holtz believes that all of the players are at good weights, but need to get into football shape and the heat of the camp should help get them ready quickly.

The first practice went well, no injuries to report and Holtz was happy with the play of the veterans and was eager to get the freshman onto the field for the first time and begin the teaching process for all of them as they prepare.

LB Antoine Pozniak has shifted to defensive line, taking snaps with the third team defense. While he is only 220-pounds, he will most likely spend the season learning the position, adding weight, and could be a new weapon in the future off the edge. 6-0 176-pound defensive back Kenneth Durden also caught his attention as he got onto the field and fielded punts well.

The team will hold another practice this afternoon and another on Saturday before they pack up and head down to Vero Beach! Looks like Tropical Storm Emily is no more so the chances of being rained out are not as high now, but then again, it is Florida.

Way Too Early Look Ahead - Running Back

Darrell Scott is ready to run all over the Big East (Picture:www.usfnation.com)

Time to look at the running backs in the way to early look ahead series. Running backs finally got more carries in 2010 under Holtz as he changed the offense and gave the rushing load to the backs, not the quarterback. Mo Plancher is gone (after what seems like 20 years) and now the Bulls will look to sort out who will be the go-to runner and get the majority of the carries. Here are the 2011 running backs. [keep reading]

Aycock Ready to Go

Former Auburn running back Donate Aycock is ready to start his career at USF.

The Bulls enter the 2011 season with a new weapon in the backfield, Dontae Aycock. The running back from Auburn transferred last season and had to sit out the season due to NCAA guidelines and has undergone knee surgery as well. But heading into the Spring, Aycock is healthy, eligible, and could have a big season for the Bulls. [keep reading]