Even though many key players weren’t on the field Saturday, the spring game gave fans a glimpse of some young players who will be asked to contribute in 2005. Linebackers Clint Sintim and Jon Copper, defensive end Chris Long and safety Jamaal Jackson were a few of those guys whom the ‘Hoos hope will make a difference next season.

On offense, Theirrien Davis continued to impress as did center Jordy Lipsey and running back Cedric Peerman . Overall, Groh seemed pleased with the team’s progress in the first two phases of the offseason – the winter strength-and-conditioning program and spring practice.

“I thought it was a positive finish to three and a half months of work,” said UVa coach Al Groh. “Without a positive first two phases, it’s hard for the rest of it to work out well, so it puts us on schedule for the things we have to do.”

Fact is, this is not a spring where you can derive a great deal of information about the team’s readiness for the season. There was progress in certain areas, but numerous questions remain that must be addressed in the fall. This is still a team that must be classified a work in progress and one laden with youth and inexperience at many positions.

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