For San Jose State University football offensive coordinator Kevin McGiven, his second spring with the Spartans is one in which he expects to a second-nature look to the team's offensive arsenal this fall.
"What I've noticed the first two days is a lot better understanding conceptually of what we are trying to get done," said McGiven.
One of the weapons, Coach McGiven has at his disposal is running back Tyler Nevens, the team's leading rusher the last two seasons. Now a junior, Nevens believes he can be greater presence in all facets of the game.
"Personal goals for myself are trying to improve my IQ football-wise and more of the game perspective – learning the concepts of the offense and defense as well so when I'm out there on the field, my job will be easier," Nevens said.
There will be a lot of competition for playing time at the running backs positions this spring. DeJon Packer believes he is ready for a big senior season. Brendan Manigo and Michael Harris, III, are targeting expanding roles coming off of competing on the Spartans' indoor track and field team. Newcomers Kairee Robinson and Lorenzo Burkes are experiencing major college football for the first time.
How each player responds to one's turns in the Spartan offense will determine his spot on the depth chart as spring practice moves on.
The Spartan ball carriers will be looking to get past Cade Hall, the only returning defensive lineman to play in all 12 games last season. Hall led the team in sacks with 3.0 to his ledger.
"I want to focus more on a leadership role and focus bringing up my teammates around me, helping everyone get better just as much as me getting better," said the Bellarmine Prep product.
The San Jose State sophomore clearly blew past the 3.0 mark academically, too, and is one of the program's record-setting 29 Spartans recently named Academic All-Mountain West. To earn the honor, one must have a cumulative grade-point average of 3.00 or higher and play in at least 50 percent of the team's contests.
"It's a huge honor. You have to take care of the school side as much as the football side."
The first week of spring practice concludes Saturday, March 9, with a two-hour session that starts at noon.
