"Every position is open to whoever wants to step in as
a starter. I am pleased with the
improvement I've seen, but we still have a long way to go until opening
day," he said.
Wood's statement was justified last season by the emergence
of true freshman running back Devin Bowers.
In an unexpected turn of events, Bowers was inserted in the lineup in
the Samford football game and did he deliver...to the tune of 144 yards on 10
carries, including a 73-yard touchdown scamper as the Rattlers vaulted out to
an early lead.
The obvious center of attention will be on who is taking the snaps for the Rattlers. Last season, Carson Royal took the first string snaps throughout camp. During the season, Kenneth Coleman would see plenty of playing time, including some games as the starter. In the Spring, Royal transitioned to tight end and Coleman took most of the snaps. Getting nearly as much time under center was redshirt freshman Ryan Stanley. Stanley's athleticism should provide a viable competitor for the starting position.
Also in the mix for the Rattlers at the quarterback position
are junior college transfer Vincent Jefferies and true freshman Tahj
Tolbert. Jeffries possesses a load of
experience, while Tolbert presents a physically imposing figure with a strong
arm. With the open competition at
quarterback, any one of these players could get the lion's share of snaps by
mid camp.
One obvious improvement in the team is in its
physicality. The addition of Parker
Brooks as director of strength and conditioning has an immediate visual
impact. Several players went through
body transformations as a Spring dedicated to strength and conditioning has
yielded the desired results. Nowhere is
that more evident than on the offensive line.
While still large in stature, several pounds of body fat have been
trimmed from the offensive line that last season was unable to give the
quarterbacks the needed time to throw or running backs the lanes to run
in. Offensive line coach Edwin Patta
hopes the added muscle mass will lead to improved performance from his players.
The defense's effectiveness will reside with the linebacking
corps. Replacing seniors Akil Blount
(Miami Dolphins) and Kashawn Butler will be the order of business for
linebackers coach Michael Vite. Curtis
Alexander and Luke Helms will lead the linebackers this season. Alexander, selected All-MEAC first team, is
an imposing figure who has the ability to take over games. The Rattler defense will look for Alexander
to have more games like his dominating performance against Hampton University
last season.
Wood's biggest goal for this season is set.
"We want to have a winning season for our seniors. These young men have taken the lead in being
the ones to turn around the program who hasn't had a winning season in too
long. Our first goal is to prepare for
the Miami Hurricanes on Sept.3," Wood said.