Auburn, Ala. (EETV) – The football team held the first scrimmage of spring practice Saturday morning. There were over 100 plays going 60 percent on the ground and 40 percent in the air, a difference from previous seasons that were 80 rushing and 20 passing. Woody Barrett and Malik Willis both went live while Jarrett Stidham wore the orange no contact jersey. Stidham told the media he is taking it “day by day” and is a “big competitor.” Sean White participated in 7-on-7 drills and is “progressing well” according to Gus Malzahn. White said he has been able to take a step back, lead the younger players and learn the new offense while not fully participating in practice.
Kam Martin and Malik Miller got the “bulk of the carries” which was by design for the scrimmage. Neither of them put the ball on the ground.
Wide receivers did get chances to make some big plays. Gus estimated 8-10 deep balls were thrown down field. John Franklin III had a “couple of catches” and a touchdown catch on the day. Defensive back Carlton Davis said Franklin has “good hands” and a “bright future” at receiver. Davis also remarked that he feels that the quarterback is the “deciding factor” for the offense this year.
Auburn did three live punts on Saturday. Fielding the punts were Franklin, Eli Stove and Ryan Davis.
On the defensive side, the first team was “flying around” according to Malzahn. Both Davis and Malzahn described the defense as a “veteran” group.
Javaris Davis said the secondary had one interception on the day by Mike Sherwood, but the secondary will review film and work to create more turnovers.
