With 10 practices under their belt, the University of Central Florida Knights football team is coming together for their Spring Game. Coming off of two losing seasons, the Knights are looking for a major comeback and have worked hard during spring drills.
From gaining weight to trimming down in the right places, UCF running backs coach Ryan Held is pleased with the improvement in size that his players have made so far.
“I like our group,” Held said. “Another year in the weight room has helped them. Jawon (Hamilton) has put on 10 pounds. Taj (McGowan) has put on 10 pounds. Some of the guys leaned up. So, we look more powerful out there. We look quicker and faster. All our guys got stronger and more explosive, which I think has helped us on the field. The runs are a lot better than they were last year. There have been a lot of positives in the run game.”
Although a lot of the guys are reaching the sizes that they want, offensive coordinator Troy Walters said what he thinks about are a couple of early enrollee freshmen who could help the team right away.
“They’re really a high school senior,” Walters said. “Body wise they’re not as strong as they need to be, but those guys are doing a great job. They’re learning how to do things and they’re making plays. Those guys have been very impressive.”
Spring update from UCF offensive coordinator Troy Walters. https://t.co/7PGtDPIhci
— Brandon Helwig (@UCFSports) April 10, 2017
Come August, the size of some of the players could surprise their fans. Although the running backs have impressed the coaches with the way they have transformed their bodies, the wide receivers impressed UCF head coach Scott Frost with the way they have been blocking in spring practice this year.
Looking Forward
In preparation for the annual Spring game, the team will have one more scrimmage and three practices next week. With all of this being said, the annual UCF Spring Game will be taking place on April 22nd at 6:30 p.m. Prior to the game, their will be pregame activities starting at 11 a.m. with a country concert by Lauren Alaina.
Full pads & under the lights of the Bounce House.
Press ▶️ to practice with us.#RiseandConquer pic.twitter.com/gYPIesJd0H
— UCF Football (@UCF_Football) April 9, 2017