Kansas football: Spring drills accomplished enough

The Kansas football showcase accomplished more than expected.  Despite no actual game, David Beaty and his staff did the right thing.

Nobody expected a large crowd at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium for the annual spring football game. David Beaty’s decision to skip a game due to injuries and simply host a showcase didn’t impact the turnout. At this point, the number of fans does not matter. Getting this team ready for the September 1, season opener is the priority.

Many Jayhawk football fans criticized Beaty’s decision. After the 15 allowed spring practices the head coach showed he made the right decision. Why risk further injury or use offensive linemen who are not healthy enough to fully participate. As a matter of fact, the fourth-year head coach must do everything possible to insure his team is healthy and ready for September.

Saturday’s weather was beautiful in Lawrence. Former Jayhawk players were on hand to encourage current players.  Jayhawk coaches evaluated players in a variety of situations beyond an actual scrimmage. Coach Beaty seemed satisfied with Saturday’s showcase and beyond.

"We got exactly what we needed to get out of it by being very creative this spring."

After the showcase, the head coach seemed comfortable with the Jayhawk quarterbacks who he said made a lot of completions. On the other hand, Beaty also said the Jayhawk defensive backs played “really well.” He specifically mentioned quarterback Peyton Bender and not Carter Stanley. Bender started the final game last season in Stillwater.

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Obviously, Beaty and his coaches have a lot of work ahead of them. Turner Gill and Charlie Weis never skipped playing a spring game. It didn’t help either of those former Jayhawk coaches to play those meaningless contests. Nobody remembers the outcome of games in March or April. Four months from now, we will know if Beaty’s decision in April made a difference.