What caught my eye at Saturday’s practice: March 9 – Part II

Because last Saturday was my first chance to get a quick glance at KU’s new-look football program, my “What caught my eye” feature ran a little long.

So here’s the second part of a list of things that stood out to me as I took in about an hour of KU’s third practice of the spring — and first with pads.

If you missed my video from last Saturday’s Hannah & Friends clinic, be sure to check that out. The Jayhawks and participants really seemed to have a great time. Many of them are still talking about it today. Also, if you missed Part I of what caught my eye, go take a look at that, too.

If you’re all caught up, here’s Part II:

• Got my first look at the newly formed offensive line and I liked a lot of what I saw. One thing that really struck me was the fact that while the current starting five was working its way through drills — Pat Lewandowski, Mike Smithburg, Dylan Admire, Ngalu Fusimalohi and Aslam Sterling — four guys with starting experience (Randall Dent, Gavin Howard, Damon Martin and Riley Spencer) were standing by watching them. There’s a lot to be determined still with this group, but I like its potential and depth.

• Speaking of Lewandowski, I think he could be a real surprise this season. It looks like he’s got great feet — perhaps even better than last year’s left tackle, Tanner Hawkinson — and he’s a fierce competitor. The only thing holding him back from being truly ready in the past was his size. But now that he’s up to 290 pounds, he appears to be coming along nicely.

• Freshman running back Colin Spencer was involved in the offensive sets the Jayhawks ran during Saturday’s practice and I think that’s a sign of things to come. I wouldn’t make too much of it, but I also wouldn’t dismiss it. It’s a crowded backfield and there’s a ton of talent in front of him, but Spencer’s a solid athlete with big-time speed. If he can pick up what they’re throwing at him, I think he’ll have a role in the offense.

• Long snapper John Wirtel, who announced on signing day that he was walking-on at KU next season, was in attendance watching practice with his family. Seemed like nice people and I was impressed more than once by the way Wirtel’s eyes were wide open while taking in what was unfolding in front of him. Recruiting coordinator Rob Ianello came over to the family during a break to welcome them. That was cool to see, too.

• There was no “Coach Weis Song of the Day” on Saturday, but there was a different familiar sign from last season — the exercise bike. Saturday, defensive back Tyree Williams and linebacker Schyler Miles were logging miles on the bike. Miles we knew about, Williams was new.

• JaCorey Shepherd, the junior wide receiver turned defensive back who wore No. 25 last season, has switched over to No. 24 this year.

• It was nice to see former Jayhawks, Maxwell Onyegbule (player) and Louie Matsakis (coach) back in crimson and blue, too.