The Flames opened the 2016 edition of spring practice on Tuesday evening, and while the practice was closed to the public (media included), we were able to catch up with Coach Gill following the nearly 3 hour workout. His full audio interview is below.
(Masha’s) going to be challenged. There’s no doubt about that.
The pre-spring practice depth chart and injury report was also released. A few notable names on the injury report include wide receiver Damian King, offensive lineman Lucas Holder, and tight ends Kendall Couamin and Will Johnson.
The most newsworthy item on the depth chart is rising senior Nick Newman listed behind redshirt-freshman Jaylyn McKinney at one of the linebacker spots. Newman led the team in tackles in 2015 with 74. When asked about it, Coach Gill said, “competition, that’s all it is.” Tanner Hartman is also listed as the starter at left tackle, a switch from the right tackle spot he started all 11 games at last season.
We will be keeping our eye on the quarterback battle as true freshman Rudiger Yearick battles junior Stephon Masha. Gill said after practice today, “(Masha’s) going to be challenged, there’s no doubt about that.” Stay tuned for plenty more coverage on the quarterback battle during the spring.
The Flames return to the gridiron on Thursday for the 2nd of 15 practices this spring culminating in the annual spring game on Saturday, April 16 at 2pm.
Coach Gill's full audio comments
Countdown to kickoff @ Virginia Tech
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