One non-QB who impressed at SEC spring games
The focus this spring has been on the quarterbacks.
Here’s a quick look at one player at another position who stood out during Saturday’s exhibition games.
Auburn H-backs Chandler Cox, Kamryn Pettway
We’re excluding standout defensive end Carl Lawson, even though he was an A-Day rookie.
Cox and Pettway brought some thunder to the Tigers’ run game while showcasing some unexpected speed. Cox had a 71-yard run. Pettway added a 40-yard run, which he finished with authority.
Kamryn Pettway toting the rock, delivering the blow. #WarEagle pic.twitter.com/haH4LStJ4b
— Auburn Football (@AuburnFootball) April 9, 2016
Kamryn Pettway & Chandler Cox are both punishing RB's when they ran it from the TB position.Pettway is 6ft 242 lbs & Cox is 6-1 232 lbs
— Josh Knox (@Joshknox31) April 11, 2016
If they can provide more than just a few timely blocks for Jovon Robinson, it might not matter much who wins Auburn’s quarterback job.
They’ll also provide Rhett Lashlee the luxury of lining up Roc Thomas in a variety of spots. Thomas caught a touchdown pass in the spring game and has the ability to turn short, easy throws into big gains.
Florida K Eddy Pineiro
Pineiro hasn’t scored a college point but already is becoming somewhat of a sensation.
No doubt his social media presence has spurred big expectations, but he’s also filling a position of absolute need.
Pineiro made five extra points and three field goals in his Gators spring game debut. His longest was from 52 yards and that led to the loudest ovation of the night.
“Most of his YouTube videos are in perfect weather,” Gators coach Jim McElwain told floridagators.com. “It was good to see him have some wind in there.”
https://twitter.com/P_Woo/status/718601709325389824
South Carolina WR Jamari Smith
Smith, who has played cornerback and running back, switched to receiver this spring.
“You can tell he is an athlete with a ball in his hands,” receiver Deebo Samuel told The State after Saturday’s spring game. “He is just a perfect athlete, so he will help us out anywhere.”
The Gamecocks need help at receiver, replacing Pharoh Cooper’s productivity and playmaking.
Smith was the leading receiver in the spring game, catching six passes for 54 yards and a touchdown.
“He made a smooth transition, and he’s a very intelligent man,” Muschamp told The State. “He’s a guy that can get yards after the catch, and he’s someone who can do nice things for you in space.”
Texas A&M RB Trayveon Williams
Texas A&M’s brand names all did their thing in Saturday’s spring game. No surprise there.
Williams’ performance, however, was a more unexpected bright spot, if for no other reason than the fact he’s an early enrollee who still should be in high school.
His best play was on a screen pass, which he turned into a 43-yard gain.
Running backs are a critical piece of Noel Mazzone’s passing scheme.
Trayveon Williams 🏃💨 pic.twitter.com/EGv2GGU7LU
— TexAgs (@TexAgs) April 9, 2016