South Alabama holds first spring practice under coach Major Applewhite

MOBILE, Ala. (WKRG) — South Alabama held a spirited first spring football practice on Thursday. It marked the first session under new head coach Major Applewhite, who was promoted from offensive coordinator in the offseason.

The team practiced in helmets and shorts as they acclimate to work on the field. The Jaguars underwent organized team activities (OTAs) in the offseason and began the process of transitioning the lessons learned to spring practice.

“I was pleased with their energy, pleased with their carryover from things that they picked up on in OTAs,” Applewhite said. “I thought the guys were flying around. There are some practice habits and things we will clean up because you get more familiar with it, but I was really pleased with the first day.”

South Alabama returns a host of veterans on both sides of the ball. The defense will be led by linebacker Khalil Jacobs and safety Jaden Voisin. Both players understand the importance of starting strong.

“We came out with a lot of energy,” Voisin said. “Everybody was competing on both sides of the ball and we have to stack days on days.”

“We have to push each other everyday,” Jacobs said. “We are still a young team and if we just grind it out, we will be as good as we want to be.”

Along with the change at head coach, there are also two new (but familiar) faces leading both units. Former linebackers coach Will Windham is the Jaguars’ defensive coordinator and Rob Ezell is the new offensive coordinator.

“It’s awesome,” Voision said. “Coach Windham is a players-coach. We are all reacting really well to him and he’s bringing us together.”

The Jaguars return to the practice field on Saturday morning.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRG News 5.