April 6, 2005
ORLANDO - The UCF football team finished its eighth practice of the spring Wednesday morning in Orlando. The Golden Knights donned full pads for just over two hours under sunny conditions.
"We started blitzing today, so that's always interesting from an offensive standpoint," stated UCF head coach George O'Leary. "I think the players are progressing pretty well."
The Golden Knights continued their normal routine of individual and team periods of work. One area UCF focused on Wednesday was punt protection as the Golden Knights worked on all three phases of the game.
The tailbacks continued to perform well, including junior Dontavius Wilcox. He had several nice runs during the team periods after a strong scrimmage Saturday. The Golden Knights depth at tailback will be tested this spring after O'Leary informed the media Wednesday that junior college transfer Jason Peters is out for the spring due to a broken foot. "I was very pleased with Jason because he is a big back who knows how to carry the ball and find daylight."
Another newcomer who has caught O'Leary's attention is freshman linebacker Jordan Richards. The North Carolina native has been working with the second team defense at outside linebacker. "The one guy who keeps catching my eye is Jordan Richards," added O'Leary. "He really has a knack for running - he can run and hit."
O'Leary also noted that freshman Clarence Howard has been moved from middle linebacker to defensive end. "I moved Howard to defensive line, which I think is his natural position."
"It has been a pretty good spring practice so far," continued O'Leary. "The only real downside has been the Peters' injury."
The Golden Knights return to the practice fields Friday morning at 9:20 a.m.