Spring game gives fans a preview for upcoming football season

By Joel Delgado ’12 MS ’17 

Under the lights of FIU Stadium on April 17, fans got their first look at the Panthers football team that will take the field this fall.

The “Friday Night Lights” spring game pitted the offense against the defense in a four-quarter scrimmage, which showcased many of the team’s newest offensive weapons and a defense that returns eight starters from last season.

While the offense “won” 34-22 over the defense through a scoring system that favors the offense, the defense shined at many points throughout the evening. They forced three turnovers, including interceptions on back-to-back possessions late in the second quarter by cornerback Mark Bruno and linebacker Jordan Guest.

Having to adjust to a new defensive coaching staff headed by new defensive coordinator Matt House, the defensive unit appears to have maintained the attributes that made it No. 35 in the nation last year in total defense (363.8 yards allowed per game).

“We want to keep playing fast, physical and smart defense,” Guest said. “We got a lot accomplished this spring and we keep getting better.”

But the offense also had plenty of moments as well, with a number of younger players getting a chance to prove themselves in the spring practice finale.

Walk-on wide receiver Shawn Abrams was getting the ball thrown his way for much of the evening, hauling in seven catches for 84 yards and a touchdown. He made the play of the night in the third quarter, making a juggling catch in tight coverage for a 29-yard gain.

“I’m not shocked that he played like that,” said starting quarterback Alex McGough. “He’s been doing that all spring.”

Sophomore wide receiver Thomas Owens and incoming freshman Anthony Jones were also targeted heavily by the revolving carousel of quarterbacks and caught four passes apiece, with Owens catching the final touchdown score of the night in the fourth quarter.

The spring game could be an early indicator that a number of underclassmen could emerge as key players in the Panthers offense when the upcoming season begins this September.

Head Coach Ron Turner hopes that the progress made in the spring on both the offensive and defensive fronts will lead to victories in the fall.

“We’re making good progress, and I’m excited about where we are,” said Turner. “Each year we’ve taken strides and I think we can take some big strides this year. I think we’re ready to take the next step.”