McCoy moving to strongside for spring

By Dave Hooker

Originally published 01:09 p.m., March 10, 2009
Updated 09:57 p.m., March 10, 2009

Rico McCoy started Tennessee spring football practice on Tuesday at strongside linebacker (SAM) after having played weakside for most of his career.

Linebacker coach Lance Thompson said the move will allow McCoy more ability to make plays.

“The SAM is a guy that you can bring off the edge and make some things happen, create some situations where he’s one-on-one with running backs,” Thompson said. “More than anything, he’s just the guy (at linebacker) who had the most experience, really the only guy to have any experience.”

Former Farragut standout Nick Reveiz got the opening nod at middle linebacker in spring practice. LaMarcus Thompson has gotten the initial chance at weakside.

Despite a lack of experience, coach Thompson said he’s pleased with his unit’s athletic ability.

“We’ve got guys that can run,” Thompson said. “They’re very good in the short area (with) change of direction and that sort of stuff.”