Cincinnati Football: Players to watch as the Bearcats prepare to compete in Spring Game

Cincinnati Bearcats running back Jerome Ford during practice at the Higher Ground training facility. The Enquirer.
Cincinnati Bearcats running back Jerome Ford during practice at the Higher Ground training facility. The Enquirer.

After starting spring practice nearly six weeks ago, Scott Satterfield’s team is set to show off their progress in the annual Spring Game on Saturday afternoon at Nippert Stadium.

Bearcats senior linebacker Deshawn Pace is a key player to keep an eye on in the intrasquad scrimmage as the Cincinnati native is expected to transition to hybrid safety next season.

Despite losing leading rusher Charles McClelland, the ground game should continue to be effective behind Corey Kiner, Myles Montgomery, Ryan Montgomery, Ethan Wright and others.

Even though it’s unclear which quarterback will emerge as the favorite heading into fall camp, the likely scenario seems to be Arizona State transfer Emory Jones or returning starter Ben Bryant.

Cincinnati Football: Players to watch as the Bearcats prepare to compete in Spring Game

It’s difficult to project who will eventually start in the secondary but there are several talented cornerbacks to lean on including Sammy Anderson Jr, Todd Bumphis, Justin Harris and Taj Ward.

With the return of star defensive tackles Jowon Briggs and Dontay Corleone, plus defensive ends Malik Vann and Eric Phillips, the Bearcats defensive line should be a cohesive and physical unit.

Cincinnati Football: Most compelling storylines to watch in the Bearcats upcoming Spring Game

Since sophomore center Gavin Gerhardt is the only starter returning on the offensive line, it will be important for transfers Luke Kandra, Trevor Radosevich and Phillip Wilder to make an impact.

There are several compelling storylines to watch in the Spring Game tomorrow including a dominant defensive line, loaded quarterback battle, underrated running back room and more!