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Logan • Utah State quarterback Chuckie Keeton, who was held out of spring practice last year while he was recovering from his knee injury, says being able to participate this time has made for a big difference.
"It gives you a better starting point with the chemistry and it's a good start to go into summer," Keeton said. "I'm glad I'm part of it. Last year, I felt like I missed out on some things. We still have summer and fall to work on things, but this feels like a really good starting point and I'm looking forward to building on it."
Josh Heupel, Utah State's new offensive coordinator, is emphasizing the tempo and has brought a few new wrinkles to the offense, but overall there isn't much change, Keeton said.
"I like it," Keeton said. "We're still learning everything and we are still USU; we will do what we do, but he has a different philosophy and he's a different play-caller, so the challenge is learning how he works."
Taking charge
With charismatic players such as Brian Suite and Frankie Sutera no longer with the Aggies, the defense needs some leaders to step up. Safety Devin Centers is at least making the effort to be that guy, riding his teammates hard in practice.
"We have to have people step up," Centers said. "We all have chemistry together, but now the twos are the ones, so a lot of guys are getting the chance to show what they can do. It's on us to come out here and work hard. If anyone needs help, I try to talk to the guys and just make sure they know what they are doing so everything gets squared away."
Rise and shine
The Aggies have held a lot of players on the defensive side of the ball out of practice as they recover from injuries. Among them are linebackers Kyler Fackrell, Nick Vigil and LT Filiaga, but coach Matt Wells has been impressed by the players angling for more time in their absence.
"Spring is a time when new kids step up and new roles are formed," Wells said. "Whether those kids earn small roles on special teams or earn roles in special packages, it's a tremendous opportunity for them because they are getting reps."
Up next
The Aggies will hold their annual Blue vs. White spring game on Saturday beginning at 2 p.m. Admission to the game is free.
A tailgate party for fans begins at noon in the parking lot.
The unveiling of Maverik as the new corporate sponsor will take place during the festivities.
Twitter: @lyawodraska