Gaffney High quarterback DeEdward Burris eludes tacklers during Friday's scrimmage against Greer. Photo by LARRY HILLIARD Dan Jones was wide-eyed like a kid in the candy store after Friday’s scrimmage against Greer.

Not surprisingly, it was the play of one defender, in particular, that had the former defensive coordinator so giddy.

“Justin Thompson showed up with some good hits,” the Gaffney High coach said.

In fact, Jones walked briskly down the sideline to where Thompson was standing to tell the talented sophomore the reason an open Greer wide receiver dropped a pass was because of a couple of hard licks he delivered earlier in the scrimmage.

Jones said he liked the play of his opportunistic defense that forced two turnovers after sustained Greer drives.

In addition to Thompson, Jones also praised the performances of sophomore lineman Tyquille Byars and cornerback Coby McDowell, who had two interceptions.

The defense played without three-fourths of its starting defensive line. Defensive end Jaylen Miller was in Matthews, N.C., for a baseball all-star tournament while Rod Oglesby and Edward Bigby are injured.

Yards came easy for the Gaffney offense, which scored on its first three drives.

“I thought the offensive line is getting an idea of who they are supposed to block,” Jones said.

Quarterback DeEdward Burris showed more poise in the pocket, according to Jones.

Burris also seems to be adjusting to taking some snaps under center. Jones said he liked the newly-installed trapping game, which should slow down attackfirst defenses.

After eight plays, the Indians began their first drive on the 22 yard line and scored just three plays later on Burris’ 40-plus yard pass to Quinshad Davis.

On their next drive, it took the Indians another three plays to score on Burris’ nifty 48-yard run.

Gaffney was more methodical on its third drive, with tailback Robert Grandy capping the 12- play drive with a 2-yard run.

“We got out of the scrimmage what we needed,” Jonesa said.

After today’s practice, the Indians will travel to Laurens for a 6 p.m. scrimmage on Tuesday.