Green Efficient, but Offense Still Finding Rhythm

Senior quarterback Taylen Green led the first-team offense with a steady hand, completing 15 of 21 passes for 173 yards while connecting with eight different receivers. Though he didn’t throw for a touchdown, Green’s command of the pocket and ability to distribute the ball stood out. His most notable completions included a pair of long gains to Charlotte transfer O’Mega Blake (33 and 18 yards), a 31-yarder to Texas A&M transfer tight end Jaden Platt, and a 17-yard strike to Fresno State transfer Raylen Sharpe.

Green’s mobility was also on display, rushing eight times for 50 yards and a touchdown, not accounting for sack yardage. Still, the offensive unit showed inconsistency during situational periods. In a simulated two-minute drill, Green took a sack and followed it up with an interception to linebacker Xavian Sorey, an unforced error that abruptly ended the drive.

Defense Answers the Call, Led by Sorey

While the offense sputtered sometimes, the defense made the most of its opportunities. Redshirt senior linebacker Xavian Sorey Jr. stood at the center of the action. He unofficially led the defense with six tackles, including three tackles for loss and three sacks. His interception of Green in the two-minute scenario capped off a well-rounded day for the returning team leader.

This spring, Sorey’s development under defensive coordinator Travis Williams has been a talking point. Williams praised Sorey’s growing understanding of the defensive scheme and his willingness to mentor younger players.

“He’s not just executing he’s studying the game,” Williams said. “He’s thinking like a coach, asking questions, getting into the ‘why’ behind what we do.”

Defensive lineman Charlie Collins also logged six tackles and a sack, contributing to a front seven that regularly disrupted plays in the backfield.