Five quick observations from USF’s first spring practice

TAMPA ― The first USF spring football practice of the Jeff Scott Era commenced on a mild morning beneath a cloudless sky Tuesday. Though reporters initially were informed of a 20-minute window to observe, we were allowed to hang out for nearly an hour, affording us a chance to collect the following observations:

• The practice-field P.A. system, a staple in the Willie Taggart and Charlie Strong eras, remains alive and pumping under Scott. A high-decibel helping of hip-hop music welcomed the players onto the field and blared during the entire portion open to reporters.

• For what it’s worth, this is the unit that lined up in front of North Carolina transfer quarterback Cade Fortin during an early drill: right tackle Jarrett Hopple, right guard Michael Wiggs, center Brad Cecil, left guard Demetris Harris and left tackle Donovan Jennings. The latter three all are returning starters.

• At least three players ― tailback Josh Berry, linebacker Antonio Grier and defensive back Bentlee Sanders ― participated in the shorts and helmets workout, albeit in non-contact jerseys. Scott said Monday that defensive tackle Armon Williams (unspecified) is the only Bull expected to be sidelined the entire spring.

• Defensive ends Chris Carter and Thomas Nance have converted to tight end. Speaking of tight ends, 6-foot-4 Berkeley Prep alumnus Jacob Mathis now is listed at 237 pounds, a 14-pound decrease from his ’19 listed weight.

• New defensive coordinator Glenn Spencer wears a visor. New offensive coordinator Charlie Weis Jr. prefers no headwear.