Expectations are higher than ever for the offense this season with the loss of key players.
However, the offense fell to the newly reconstructed defense in regards to evident progress and overall plays made in Saturday’s scrimmage.
Although Gus Malzahn said the offense wasn’t moving in a negative direction, there weren’t any plays that stood out as anything spectacular.
“They did okay,” Malzahn said. “I don’t think there was anything that stood out negatively.”
Saturday’s practice game consisted of mostly short runs instead of long passes from both Jeremy Johnson and Sean White, apart from one pass that was caught out of bounds.
“I did okay,” Johnson said. “That’s what I’m here for, to practice.”
White will most likely take the back-burner position and let Johnson take the lead this season for the Tigers.
“All I can do is go out and play to by best ability, that’s up to the coaches whether I’m on field or not,” White said. “I’m a young quarterback, so I think I can learn a lot playing in the SEC. Experience always helps.”
If White does go live, he said fans should expect him to connect passes wherever they are on the field and use his running ability to make plays, regardless of his height disadvantage.
Both quarterback contenders mentioned a touchdown resulting from a break away by Jovan Robinson in scrimmage, who seems to be excelling in the running back position.
White said Robinson’s combination of speed and agility tied with his size advantage makes him an explosive player who is able to run and easily break tackles.
Wheel routes were also a mark for progress from the offense and worked well in practice.
There was also only one completed pick from the defense, but not off of White or Johnson.
“Overall, I’m happy,” Malzahn said. “I think after the evaluation of this scrimmage, offensively and defensively, we’ll have a really good judge at least where we are and what we need to focus on.”
Do you like this story? The Plainsman doesn't accept money from tuition or student fees, and we don't charge a subscription fee. But you can donate to support The Plainsman.
