Eastern’s Beau Baldwin pleased with spring football ‘operation’

By all accounts, the operation was a success. Eastern Washington football coach Beau Baldwin used that word, “operation,” almost every day last month – a catch-all to describe his players’ technique and mechanics during 14 spring practices. As the Eagles wrapped up spring ball Thursday afternoon, Baldwin said he also liked the players’ “attitude and demeanor” throughout the month as they made some major adjustments on both sides of the ball. Then he pointed out that he considers spring ball a building block for the fall – “We’re only about a third of the way through practice,” Baldwin said, counting the days to the opener on Sept. 5 at Oregon. Baldwin said that despite missing a large number of players to minor injuries, the Eagles checked off the two biggest boxes: — Adapting to a new quarterback – whoever that is – while “doing certain things in our offense that are a little different than we’ve done … that will make us tougher to defend.” — Adjusting to new terminology and coverages in the new nickel defense under the direction of new coordinator Jeff Schmedding. The month wasn’t perfect – Baldwin saw room for improvement in short-yardage offense and tackling technique in live situations on defense – but felt confident going into summer and the beginning of fall camp on Aug. 10. Spring also offered the first glimpse of a new generation of players. Several youngsters made a positive impression on Baldwin and his staff, including wide receivers Zach Eagle, Stu Stiles and Simba Webster; defensive linement Dylan Donahue, Marcus Saugen and Kaleb Levao; and defensive back Mitch Fettig. Here’s a position-by-position look at how the Eagles shape up after spring camp: Quarterback: Someone must replace Vernon Adams Jr. Most fans expect it will be strong-armed pocket passer Jordan West, who started four games last year (going 86 for 142 for 1,072 yards, nine touchdowns and just one interception) and held his own during spring ball. However, redshirt freshmen Reilly Hennessey and Gage Gubrud made strong impressions in spring ball and have the edge in mobility over West. So, coach, who’ll be under center in Eugene on Sept. 5? “If it was tomorrow, Jordan West would start, but the game isn’t tomorrow,” Baldwin said. “All three of those guys are helping to push each other. … Jordan may have had the the lowest percentage completion-wise, but he may have graded out the highest.” Running backs: Redshirt juniors Jabari Wilson and Jalen Moore had some big games last year but also missed chunks of the season with injury. Redshirt freshman Ashanti Kindle had a strong spring session, and at least two high school recruits are due in August. The biggest challenge will be getting the backs involved in the passing game. Wide receivers: This group won’t miss a beat this fall. Cooper Kupp (104 catches last year for 1,431 yards and 16 TDs) followed one All-American season with another, while Kendrick Bourne (52 catches, 814 yards and 10 TDs) and Shaq Hill are two of the biggest deep threats in the Big Sky. Returnees Nic Sblendorio, Terence Grady and a strong group of redshirts should make a big contribution. Tight ends: Will this be the year the Eagle tight ends get more involved in the passing game? Veterans Zach Wimberly, Terry Jackson II and Jake Withnell comprise one of the top units in the conference. Offensive line: With a wealth of veteran talent, Eastern should have the best line in the conference. All-American left guard Aaron Neary leads a group whose biggest challenge may be grooming the next generation in time to avoid a big dropoff in 2016. The rest of an apparent all-senior starting lineup includes tackles Clay DeBord and Cassidy Curtis, guard Thomas Gomez and center T.J. Boatright. Defensive line: Last year, the young D-line lacked some beef, but most players made big gains in the weight room. Expect that to continue through summer. This year’s edition will have a good balance of youth and experience, with tackle Matthew Sommer and Samson Ebukan providing the leadership. Linebackers: The switch to a nickel lessened the depth problems here, and redshirt junior Miquiyah Zamora is more than capable at one spot. Jake Gall and Alex Kacmarcik also will see plenty of action, and redshirt freshman Joe Kreifels will see action in the rover spot in the nickel. Defensive backs: The coaches will have plenty to choose from this fall at cornerback. Arizona State transfer Rashad Wadood returns for his senior year, but the other spot appears to be up for grabs. Safety is a bigger concern, but players were moved from corner in the offseason. Senior Todd Raynes and Zach Bruce should be solid at safety, but depth is a concern. Special teams: The Eagles had six kickers in spring camp, but the favorite will be returnee Tyler McNannay, who was 11 for 11 on field goals last year. New starters must take over at punter, long snapper and holder. Baldwin, who takes a big interest in special teams, “We’re we’re used to a high standard, so that’s a challenge for those guys to meet those expectations.” Hill and Kupp are back to return kickoffs and punts, respectively.