ATLANTA--The Georgia State football team scrimmaged for the first time this spring Friday morning at the GSU Practice Complex.

"It was a little ragged, probably exactly what you would expect from the first scrimmage of the spring," said head coach Bill Curry. "I'm interested in this team showing improvement and consistency every day, and we are working hard every single minute to get that done.

"It's hard to believe we are halfway through spring practice."

Curry noted some of the bright spots he saw in the scrimmage.

"I was pleased with the way all of our backs ran the ball, and we are deep at that position," said Curry. "At the same time, I was pleased that the defense showed long stretches of being able to stop the run."

One player making an impression on defense this spring is walk-on outside linebacker Mitchell Vinson, a senior from Monroe, Ga.

"He has absolutely been the surprise of the spring," said defensive coordinator Anthony Midget. "He's making plays every day, and he's a high-energy guy."

On the defensive front, sophomore defensive end John Kelly is now working with the first unit, opposite A.J. Portee, with junior Allen McKay now working at inside linebacker. Freshman Kyle Vorster is also practicing at linebacker, moving from safety.

The Panthers will resume spring practice next week with workouts scheduled for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings, each beginning at 8 a.m.

Georgia State will hold its Spring Scrimmage next Saturday, March 31, at 12 noon at the GSU Practice Complex. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. and admission is free. Free parking is available on campus in the G-Deck, adjacent to the Sports Arena and a short walk from the GSU Practice Complex.

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