BYU linebackers coach Justin Ena reacts during spring football practice at the Indoor Practice Facility in Provo on March 10, 2023.

Ryan Sun, Deseret News

Anxious to please.

That could be the theme for the first week of BYU spring practice after three sessions that concluded on Friday in the indoor practice facility. A new set of defensive coaches led by new coordinator Jay Hill are meticulously installing new pressures and coverages, and players are energized to show what they can do and make an impression.

And yes, everyone is flying around.

When Friday’s practice finished and players and coaches were doing interviews, a good number of players remained with their coaches and continued to work on post-practice sets. It went on so long that head coach Kalani Sitake signaled for an aide to strategically tell the lingering team members to head to the locker room — another sports team was expected to use the building.

The extra time was being put in by USC/Pitt transfer QB Kedon Slovis, a trademark he has established the first week — to work longer. The other group included linebackers with coaches Justin Ena and Kelly Poppinga.

“Kedon is used to being QB1 and you can see it,” said Sitake.

Had a nice visit with Kedon Slovis after practice tonight. Impressive young man. He said it feels like he’s been here forever. Looking forward to watching him play on Sept. 2! #BYUFOOTBALL pic./ek0livuzSx

— Dave McCann () March 11, 2023

“There are a lot of changes, both schematically and with new guys out there,” said defensive tackle John Nelson. “Because so much of it is new and all of us are learning it, it’s not like the older guys have any advantage over expectations.” Nelson said he believes one-third of BYU’s new defense under Hill has been installed in the first week.

So, what’s new?

“More aggression from the tackles to get upfield and make plays, more pressure from the ends, the defensive ends are pushing hard.”

Friday was the first day of full pads, which translated into physical contact at the line of scrimmage. There, Sitake said …read more

Source:: Deseret News – Sports News

      

BYU football: Players feel shift in conditioning in spring practice

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