Photo by LARRY HILLIARD Gaffney defensive linemen tie up a Greer blocker during Friday's scrimmage. The Indians returned to practice today before another scrimmage Tuesday at Presbyterian College against Greenwood. The Gaffney Indians, with a more explosive offense than nationally-ranked Byrnes?

That might not be reality, but you might have a hard time convincing Greer of that.

The Indians scored three early touchdowns, two of which came on flare passes to Joe Craig and Kenard Lipscomb, in an impressive scrimmage performance against Greer on Friday.

Even normally-reserved head coach Phil Strickland liked what he saw.

"Not too bad," Strickland said. "We moved the football. Some came on broken plays, but we also had some long drives. We can do better. We still have some work to do."

Strickland has consistently maintained during the preseason that the offense is far ahead of last year when the coaching staff was installing the no-huddle.

"The kids just understand what to do," he said.

That includes quarterback DeEdward Burris, who appears much more poised this season.

Gaffney tailback Kenard Lipscomb heads downfield after breaking into open space during Friday's scrimmage at Greer. "He's reading defenses better," Strickland said of his junior quarterback. He's not just reacting."

The defense struggled at times against Greer's potent running attack. But some young players showed promise.

"The first scrimmage we knew we'd make some mistakes, but the effort was there," Gaffney defensive coordinator Dan Jones said. "Once our players figure out what they are supposed to do, we'll be pretty good."
SCRIMMAGE OBSERVATIONS
Gaffney quarterback DeEdward Burris might be the most elusive
quarterback in the state. Despite being surrounded by defensive players,
Burris has the instincts, balance and quickness to evade the rush
and gain valuable yards on broken plays.
With Burris, wide receiver Joe Craig and running back Kenard
Lipscomb, the Indians' offense has three big-play threats to give any
defensive coordinator nightmares.
The coaching staff had to take a deep breath when offensive lineman
Ryan Peterson appeared to injure his shoulder. Graduation losses have
made the offensive line a concern.
The Indians may start as many as six sophomores on defense and it's
not because there is no upperclassmen talent. They are that good.
Remember the names Edward Bigby and Jaylen Miller.
UPCOMING SCHEDULE
Today - practice 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.
Tuesday - Scrimmage vs. Greenwood at Presbyterian College
Wednesday - practice 4 p.m.
Thursday - practice 4 p.m.
Friday - The Border Showcase at Crest High School has been moved
from Saturday to Friday.