'Jacks To Scrimmage Thursday At 3:30
3/27/2002 12:00:00 AM | Football
March 27, 2002
CONTACT: Rob Meyers
NACOGDOCHES, Texas -- The Lumberjacks of Stephen F. Austin wrapped up their sixth practice of the spring Wednesday afternoon under ideal conditions as they ready themselves for the first scrimmage of spring practices. SFA coaches say they have been pleased with what they have seen thus far during the spring workouts.
One area the coaching staff was hoping to see settled this spring was along the offensive line, where senior Greg Barnum has moved from noseguard the past two seasons for the 'Jacks, back to his natural position of center. Barnum transferred to SFA prior to the start of the 2000 season after spending time at the University of Tennessee. Prior to his decision to transfer, Barnum had been named by the Volunteers coaching staff as the projected starter at center entering his sophomore season. Barnum elected to return to Texas and finish his education and college career a little closer to home.
Listed as the top center in the nation coming out of Killeen Ellison as a prep star, Barnum says that the adjustment back to the offensive side of the ball has been challenging, but he feels will be beneficial in the long run. "Both positions, center and noseguard, are tough but the move back to the offensive line has gone smoothly so far. There are more things to learn along the offensive line such as blocking assignments and terminology, but so far I've been pleased with the way things have gone," said Barnum.
Asked which position he prefers playing, Barnum said he couldn't really say, but did offer that he felt he was a much better center than as a defensive lineman. When Barnum arrived on the SFA campus, the 'Jacks were depleted along the defensive front but the addition of several defensive linemen the past few recruiting classes has given SFA head coach Mike Santiago the luxury of moving Barnum back to the offensive line.
The 'Jacks will enter the 2002 season with three returning starters and Barnum up front. SFA struggled last season in trying to protect the quarterback giving up 38 sacks on the season. The addition of Barnum and another year of experience for tackles David Phillips and Joe Owens should help reduce that number.
All three quarterback candidates continue to look impressive in spring camp as well, with Matt Williford, Michael Williams and Zeke Dixon all getting good reps. Santiago has said that no decision about a starter will be made this spring, but the coaching staff wants to get a good look at all three before heading into fall camp in August.
The 'Jacks will hold their first scrimmage of the spring Thursday afternoon at 3:30 p.m. at Homer Bryce Stadium before breaking for the Easter holiday. Spring workouts conclude April 12 with the annual Spring Game at 7:00 p.m. in the stadium.
