March 4, 2010

The 2010 edition of the University of South Carolina football squad took the field for the first time on Thursday afternoon as spring drills got underway in Columbia. The team worked out for about two hours in helmets and shorts at the Bluff Road practice fields. It was the squad’s only practice before a week’s hiatus for spring break.

“We thought some of the young guys like Connor Shaw, DeMario Bennett and Demario Jeffery (could benefit) from practice and give them something to think about over the spring break week,” said head coach Steve Spurrier of getting in the one practice prior to the break. “That was the reason we did that.”

Senior fullback Patrick DiMarco saw some action at tight end on Thursday, something that he may see more of as the year progresses. “He looked pretty good in there. This will give him a chance to get on the field more.”

Coach Spurrier seemed to be impressed with his first look at Shaw, a true freshman quarterback. “The ball comes out of his hand pretty nicely as you guys could see today. He’s got a quick throw. He got a lot of snaps and he’ll continue to get a lot of snaps.”

Wide receiver Alshon Jeffery was absent from the first practice. “Alshon had a little academic issue. He missed a class so he had to miss a practice. He should be here the rest of them.”

Brian Maddox was the strongest Gamecock, pound for pound, according to Coach Spurrier. “A lot of guys improved and really did well,” said the Head Ball Coach.

Coach Spurrier was asked about his thoughts on new offensive line coach Shawn Elliott. “He’s a typical O-Line coach. He gets in there with them. He’s intense and is about what I expected. He’s got an excellent reputation. His guys play well. So we’re expecting our guys to play better.”

The Gamecocks will take next week off for the University’s spring break. The next scheduled practice is Tuesday, March 16 at 7 p.m.