Jaguars Open Fall Camp with Quiet Confidence and Defensive Bite

August 3, 2025 - MOBILE, AL. - The South Alabama Jaguars launched their 2025 fall football camp on July 30 with a blend of quiet confidence and gritty determination. Head coach Major Applewhite enters his third season at the helm with a roster that's deeper, more experienced, and hungry to rebound from last year's midseason slide.

"We've got a lot of guys who've been through the fire," Applewhite said. "Now it's about sharpening the blade and building consistency."

Quarterback Battle: Experience vs. Upside

The most closely watched storyline in camp is the quarterback competition between senior Carter Bradley and sophomore dual-threat Malik Washington. Bradley, who started most of 2024, brings poise and command, while Washington has flashed athleticism and a live arm in early reps.

Applewhite has emphasized decision-making and ball security, and both quarterbacks have taken turns leading the first-team offense during tempo drills. The staff is expected to name a starter by mid-August, but the competition is pushing both players to elevate their game.

Offensive Line: Rebuilding the Wall

South Alabama lost two starters up front, but the early returns from camp suggest the line is gelling quickly. Junior center Jake Andrews anchors the unit, while transfers from UAB and Southern Miss have added depth and competition.

The Jaguars have focused heavily on run fits and blitz pickup during morning sessions, with padded practices revealing a more physical tone than last year. Offensive line coach Gordon Steele has praised the group's communication and toughness.

Running Game: Speed and Power Blend

Returning tailback La'Damian Webb has looked explosive in early practices, showing improved vision and burst. He's joined by freshman bruiser Tyrese Grant, who turned heads during the August 1 padded session with a punishing goal-line run.

The duo gives South Alabama a versatile backfield, and Applewhite has hinted at using Webb more in the passing game this season. Expect the Jaguars to lean on the run early as the quarterback battle plays out.

Wide Receivers: Youth Movement

With the departure of top target Caullin Lacy to the NFL, the Jaguars are turning to a young but talented receiving corps. Sophomore Jalen Wayne has emerged as a reliable possession receiver, while freshman speedster Zayden Hill has drawn praise for his separation and hands.

The group is still developing chemistry with the quarterbacks, but wide receivers coach Rob Likens has emphasized route precision and contested catches. The August 2 night practice featured several highlight grabs, including a toe-tap touchdown from Hill.

Defense: Fast, Physical, and Vocal

Defensive coordinator Corey Batoon has installed a more aggressive scheme, and the results have been immediate. The Jaguars' defense dominated the first padded practice, forcing three turnovers and consistently collapsing the pocket.

Linebacker Quentin Wilborn has been the emotional leader, barking out calls and flying to the ball. The defensive line, led by senior nose tackle Wy'Kevious Thomas, has set the tone with physicality and gap discipline.

"We're not waiting around," Batoon said. "We're attacking every rep."

Secondary: Depth and Versatility

South Alabama's defensive backfield has been a bright spot, with multiple players rotating through nickel and safety packages. Cornerback Devin Rockette has locked down his side of the field, while sophomore safety Marcus Jones has impressed with his range and tackling.

The unit's depth has allowed Batoon to experiment with dime looks and disguised coverages, and the energy has been contagious.

Practice Format: Morning Grind, Evening Tests

The Jaguars have adopted a hybrid schedule, mixing early morning practices with evening sessions to simulate game conditions. The August 2 night practice was a stress test for the team's conditioning and focus, and Applewhite didn't mince words afterward.

"We've got to finish better," he said. "The defense brought juice. The offense has to match it."

Culture and Leadership: Veteran Core Steps Up

With over 80% of the roster participating in summer workouts, South Alabama entered camp with strong internal leadership. Applewhite has leaned on veterans like Bradley, Wilborn, and Thomas to set the tone, and the team's accountability has been evident.

"We're not just installing plays," Applewhite said. "We're building habits."

Looking Ahead: SE Louisiana and Beyond

South Alabama opens the season at home against Southeastern Louisiana on August 30, and the first week of camp has laid a solid foundation. With a fierce defense, a balanced run game, and a quarterback battle that's sharpening both contenders, the Jaguars are quietly building toward a breakout season.

The next two weeks will be critical for solidifying depth charts and refining execution. But if Week 1 is any indication, South Alabama is ready to punch above its weight-and they're doing it with grit, speed, and a chip on their shoulder.