University of Southern Mississippi Athletics
Defensive Backs Discuss Spring Ball Progress
3/28/2019 7:46:00 PM | Football
HATTIESBURG, Miss. -- The Southern Miss football team wrapped up yet another day of practice, and its vaunted defensive secondary provided updated insight from both team and individual perspectives.
The squad will also have an open practice for fans as part of Spring Preview weekend on Saturday, April 6, followed by the Black and Gold Spring Game on April 13.
Redshirt-junior Ky'el Hemby
On what he has seen from the team so far
"From a defensive perspective, I feel that we are coming out every day and attacking. So far, I feel like the spring is going very well. I feel like our assignments and eyes have gotten a lot better since the season ended. Tempo-wise, we are getting after it every day and making plays. We are taking the ball back even more than we did in the actual season."
On how facing a new offensive approach changes the defense each day
"It definitely is. With the new looks, it's always good to see things ahead of time. During the fall, we will see a lot of similar things. I feel like it's helping us with certain situations. Our coaches put us in different coverages and situations, even bad ones, to see where we are at and how we adjust. Then in the film room, we can see 'oh, we should be here,' and those kind of things that will help in the long run."
On his impressions of spring ball
"Spring ball isn't about having fun, but just having preparation for the fall. We know kind of who a starter is, but every position is up for grabs. I was a starter last season, but coming out this year and earning my spot again is what it's all about. We have competitions and get after each other, but at the same time we encourage and pick each other up. Everyone is coming for another man's job."
Senior Ty Williams
On how his position group approaches each day
"We want to bring the energy every day of practice. If one of us makes a play, we all feel that we have to do the same. If someone makes a big play, then we all feel we did our job."
On the speed of his career
"It moves really fast. I came in last spring and now I'm a senior. Losing Picasso and Xavier Marion leaves you at a spot of 'what can I do to be a leader?' It feels great to show you can be a leader to the young guys. I'm always around to help. We show each other small things that get us better."
On buying into the Nasty Bunch mantra
"Our main focus is to dominate, one day at a time. We want to let everyone know that we are the Southern Miss Nasty Bunch, and that we are always going to hit you. We've got fast guys up front and in the back."
