McCollum liking progress of spring drills
“The weather has been a far cry from last weekend’s 80 degree days, but that’s okay with us,” head coach Andy McCollum said. “We have enjoyed three really good days of work and we are seeing a lot of improvement. I have been impressed by a lot of kids and you can tell they have been working hard in the weight room and putting extra time in on knowing their assignments.”
Despite the weather conditions, the Blue Raiders showed a lot of improvement Wednesday while going out in helmets and shoulder pads for the first time.
“We had a physical practice today and I was very pleased with the way everybody competed,” McCollum added. “We had a spirited middle drill and our 11 on 11 period was good. Overall, I have been real happy with our attitude and approach.”
A couple of players who have really caught McCollum’s eye this spring have been senior Pedro Holiday, and newcomers Lee Baker and DeMarcus Green. Holiday’s speed and newfound confidence has really shown as the Rome, Ga., native has reeled in three long touchdown passes in the team’s first three
practices. Baker has exhibited a lot of versatility and athleticism, while Green has made his mark in the secondary.
“Pedro is a different guy right now from where he was during the season,” McCollum said. “He’s finally healthy, is catching the ball well and is playing with confidence. Lee (Baker) is a difference maker who will make an impact on this team. We just have to find the best place for him whether it’s at tailback or receiver. As for DeMarcus, he is doing exactly what we thought coming out of junior college. He has great feet, is very mature and knows how to play the position.”
The Blue Raiders will resume drills on Thursday as the team dons full pads for the first time this spring. The team will also practice on Friday before holding the first scrimmage of the spring on Saturday morning at 10:30 a.m.