Jayhawks embrace community, showcasing explosive plays and electrifying talent. Leipold finds competitive balance and sparks team energy during open practice.
Lance Leipold Sees “Competitive Balance” As Kansas Football Wraps Open Practice At Lawrence High School
Lance Leipold and the Kansas staff took spring practice off campus Saturday morning, hosting an open session at Lawrence High School and the Jayhawks head coach came away encouraged by both the environment and his team’s progress.
“Yeah, I’m glad we had a chance to do this,” Leipold said. “We appreciate Lawrence High giving us the opportunity… I think we got a lot of great things accomplished today. Still got a lot to clean up as always, but… we got a lot done.”
With fans and a band in attendance, Leipold said the atmosphere brought a different energy , and a useful evaluation tool.
“You know, again, I always try to stay balanced as a head coach,” Leipold said. “If they’re having explosive plays, are we not stopping people? … You look for that competitive balance. But the ‘oohs and ahhs’ from the fans… that added a lot today.”
That environment also sparked his team early.
“Once they saw people lined up when they got off the bus, I think it helped get the juices going,” he said.
With just three practices remaining this spring, Leipold emphasized situational work and roster evaluation.
“We got good situational work — backed-up situations, red zone, two-minute drills. That’s the kind of stuff that helps you in games,” he said. “We’ve got to take advantage of [the last practices]… I’m excited about this group.”
At quarterback, the competition remains ongoing.
“I think it’s where we want it,” Leipold said. “Chase probably had his best day… Cole and Isaiah are getting reps… I think by halfway through fall camp, we’ll have a clear picture.”
“It’s time — consistency, separation, command of the offense, decision-making, accuracy, leadership.”
Skill positions have flashed throughout the spring.
“Kory shows burst… Yen has shown explosiveness… Dylan Edwards will be our most electric player,” Leipold said.
At receiver, “Cam Pickett continues to show he can make plays… Nick McMillan has shown it from day one… D. Cox has really come on.”
And in the return game: “Tate will be a return specialist along with Dylan… two guys who can make plays.”
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