Utah State's pass defense shows promise in spring start

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On the first day of spring practice, pass defenders had a solid day.

The secondary's best returning player is Nevin Lawson, who helped set the tone with several pass break-ups. Devonta Glover-Wright notched an interception, as did freshman linebacker Nick Vigil, who dove for his pick.

It's a solid start in a secondary that has a few question marks, namely, who might start opposite Lawson, already one of the team's top leaders and a returning all-WAC honoree. Glover-Wright is attempting to establish himself as the next man up after watching Will Davis become an NFL prospect in one season.

Returnee Maurice Alexander is trying to make a switch to safety, but is a good athlete at the position. He didn't play football last year, but Utah State hopes he regains the form that made him so effective in 2011. Brian Suite brings experience to the other safety spot, and gets in on a lot of tackles.

Vigil hopes to make an impact as a freshman after redshirting last year. Coaches think he could play inside or outside linebacker, and has ample athleticism to play either.

The playmaking is promising for the first spring practice, and it shows the wisdom of retaining defensive backs coach Kendrick Shaver and linebackers coach Kevin Clune. Utah State's pass efficiency defense was No. 10 in the nation last year, and the Aggies are shooting for similar effectiveness for their first season in the Mountain West.

It's interesting the group showed some promise early: Utah State signed several defensive backs this spring to shore up the depth. As the Aggies get into padded practice, it will be one of the intriguing groups to watch.