FSU Practice Report: One day away from spring game

Prior to practice, head coach Willie Taggart told the media what was at stake during the Garnet and Gold spring game: steak. Well, steak for the winning team and hot dogs for the losing team, who will also have to serve the winning team their steak dinner.

Practice was in the late afternoon on Thursday, as opposed to the recent morning practices during the week, and media availability was limited, likely due to the time change. Taggart mentioned that the teams were given 45 minutes at the end of practice to practice separately for Saturday’s game.

Injured/absent

Running back Zaquandre White was not at practice on Thursday. Taggart was asked about White’s status with the team as his pre-practice interview was ending, he replied that White was still with the team before jogging to the practice field. Francois, who is still recovering from injury, was also not present and it is unclear whether or not his absence is related to his recent misdemeanor marijuana charges.

Offense

Quarterbacks James Blackman and Bailey Hockman alternated snaps throwing short out routes to running back Cam Akers, who did not participate in the normal running back drills. Later in practice the quarterback duo worked on comeback routes with the wide receivers.

The offensive line practiced blocking today. Participating in the drill was Landon Dickerson, Corey Martinez — who was the first overall pick in the spring game draft — Derrick Kelly II, and Mike Arnold, blocking against Christian Armstrong, Josh Ball, Brady Scott, and Andrew Basham.

Wide receivers and running backs also worked on ball control drills, running through pads with the ball and falling on loose balls.

Defense

The linebackers ran through the sled drill, directed by Raymond Woodie, and freshman Amari Gainer was removed from the line when he made a mistake. Dontavious Jackson pulled Gainer aside to correct his mistake.

The defensive backs worked on following coverage assignments and intercepting passes with freshman Jaiden Woodbey continuing to make a name for himself in spring practice. It will be exciting to see him in action on Saturday.

Special Teams

Kicker Ricky Aguayo practiced field goals at the beginning of practice against a live walk-through defense. He struggled to find consistency, although it was rather windy.

Khalan Laborn, Blaik Middleton, Keith Gavin and Ontaria Wilson all participated in a punt return drill, running back kicks against two defenders.