It's a deep subject

We're taking a break from spring practice and got a peek at the spring depth chart.

I want to take a look at each position and see how we stand right now and speculate a little on changes that may take place in the fall. Today, I'm tackling the Safety position. Over the course of the next few days, I'll take a look at CB, LB, DE, DT, OL, WR, TE, RB, QB, & special teams.

By taking what we know based on performance and from just a few of the coaches observations that have come out this spring, we can get a pretty good picture of how these Dawg's are stacking up as they begin a very tough schedule.

SAFETIES

Kelin Johnson is one of a handful of starters that we lost, but he's leaving his position in the excellent hands of Reshad Jones. Jones ranked 3rd on the team in tackes last season while backing up Johnson. He picked up 3 tfl and 1 pick. Oh, did I mention that he was a redshirt freshman? A 5 star recruit listed as the best safety prospect in the country in 2006, Reshad certainly didn't disappoint when he hit the field this year. He's a ballhawk and a playmaker. Look for the int total to go up this year.

The other safety position is manned by returning starter and senior C.J. Byrd. Byrd had a solid season starting all 13 games, racking up 44 tackles, 1 pick, and 1 fumble recovery. Rated as a 4 star athlete in 2005, C.J. came up big when he finally took his place as the starter in '07.

We have some pretty good talent backing these guys up, but not much experience.

Quentin Banks - RSoph - played in 12 games recording 8 tackles

Donavon Baldwin - RJun - no significant playing time

John Knox - RFr - the coaches seem to like the progress this kid is making

As far as incoming freshmen, Xavier Avery would seem the most likely prospect to see any time at all this year. Baccari Rambo is a real longshot. Both are likely to redshirt.

As it stands, the starters will be very strong, with Banks giving both a breather while gaining experience to take Byrd's spot the following year. Knox and Baldwin will see some time in select situations also, gaining valuable experience in the process. A little insurance doesn't hurt.

(h/t ching, cstv)