Mother Nature was a factor last week as the Dawosn County High School Tigers began spring football practice.
Rain forced Head Coach Jeff Lee’s team in the gym two days last week because the practice field was saturated with water.
Thursday the team was off due to early release at the school.
“We used one of those days to work on the white board, showing the guys different schemes,” said Lee. “Wednesday we went full pads in the gym and we got a lot accomplished, but it’s not the same as going outside.”
Friday, the Tigers hit a soggy practice field.
“It poured about two o’clock. The rain finally stopped and we were able to go outside finally,” remarked Lee. “All we did was run inside veer, since we haven’t been able to put anything else in yet.”
Lee commented about the play of junior quarterback Ethan Brown.
“Ethan is perfect for this offense. He has done a good job so far in spring practice on his reads,” said Lee.
The offensive line is also learning a new offensive scheme. Instead of pass protecting they are now down in a 3-point stance.
“This is a big change for our lineman. The last few years they were always up and using their hands with their weight back, now they are down and firing off the ball. It’s a big difference for those guys.”
Zach Johnson, who is still recovering from surgery, will be an instrumental part of a massive line. DJ Miolen is also having a good spring so far, according to Lee.
“Zach is going through some of the drills, but is not up to full speed yet. DJ has gotten bigger and is doing really well.”
The Tigers have three more days of practice left before their big scrimmage this Saturday. The Georgia High School Association only allows 10 days to practice in the spring. “We are really excited about Saturday. It will be a huge event for our kids,” said Lee.
Saturday’s scrimmage will begin at 1 p.m., but will be preceded by music, bands will be playing, food and many other events.
“We have a lot to learn and time is running out. Hopefully, we will get a feel for where to put players on a depth chart after the scrimmage. This will help us evaluate our kids before we start in the fall,” said Lee.
E-mail Pam Jacobs at sports@dawsonnews.com.