David Gibbs, UCF's co-defensive coordinator who oversees the secondary, talked about his group as the team heads into the final week of spring practice.
Gibbs says when the competition is good, players will practice harder. So that's a big positive of having depth and competition.
Safety Koby Perry is a "competitive, physical player." He's got things to improve on, but "brings an edge."
Gibbs wanted to make clear that he and Addison Williams collectively coach the secondary.
"Make no mistake, Addison Williams is a rock star. He should be in here instead of me. He's going to be a DC here in college football in the next two or three years."
Gibbs believes UCF's offense is "heads and shoulders better" than last year. No matter who the QB is, "they're freaking good." Gus/Lindsey do so many different things with motions, etc., it only helps the defense .
CB Davonte Brown is a good kid, quiet kid, really smart, does everything the right way. Trying to become more of a leader. "Looking forward to big things from him."
CB Brandon Adams has gotten better. He arrived last June and was also a QB in HS, and is doing a great job.
Gibbs reiterated how good the kids are. They take care of business in the classroom. They're easy to coach.
Divaad Wilson is versatile with his mouth and dancing. He can play wherever.
"We have a lot of versatility in the secondary with guys who can play in multiple spots. You have to have depth because playing 12, 13 games, guys are going to get hurt and guys have to know multiple positions. Newt can play nickel, safety, whatever, but we have a group of guys that can play multiple things."
Freshman CB Nikai Martinez only practiced maybe two or three times. He's had a hamstring issue.
S Quadric Bullard is not practicing this spring as he had surgery on his shoulder.
"He's probably our smartest guy in the back end as far as making adjustments, being the so-called quarterback of the defense. He's pretty good at that... UCF is in a good spot right now. Quad is a piece of the puzzle. The sooner he's back, the better for him and better for us. He has gained weight. That's good. He'll gain strength. To play however many games he played with a torn shoulder is impressive, so he's tough."
