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Faster defense to debut this fall
"We have a lot of young kids and we've been working on the basic fundamentals (during spring drills)," Gaffney defensive coordinator Dan Jones said. "Since we are so young, we have to start from square one. But we have a lot of speed." Jones must find replacements for as many as eight starters and players who logged significant minutes. Most notably, Jones must replace inside backers Julius Wilkerson and Bryce Smiley as well as outside backers Rashun Harris and O'bryan Littlejohn. All four players received college scholarships. J.B. Shippy, Brandon Bonner and former backup quarterback Drew Howard have emerged as the early leaders to win an inside linebacker spot. Howard may be the most intriguing with his 6-4, 215-lb. frame and athletic ability. "He's one of our 11 best players and we have to find a place for him to play," Jones said. Shane Phillips, one of the team's top hitters, and Garrett Bridges are the likely front runners at outside linebackers. Along the line, the Indians will be missing two starters, Daniel Moss and North-South AllStar Game selection Clay Champion. The team's best returning lineman, Greyson Gentry, is still recovering from torn knee ligaments he suffered in last year's playoffs. Jones said Gentry has been restricted to only straight-ahead drills during spring practice. Linemen Alex Evans, Joelle Arriaga, former Blacksburg Wildcat Levar Ross and Romeo Adams have been bright spots during spring drills, according to Jones. There are also openings in the secondary, where Kendrick Tate is the only returning starter. Johnny Woods has been impressive at safety while Kelin Morris has shown promise at cornerback. Robert Butler and Norvert Haney are also in the secondary mix. "I think overall team speed is better than last year, but last year's group recognized things quicker because they were experienced," Jones said. "Our job is to get the people in the right spots." The Indians will conclude spring drills next week. |
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