For most college football teams, an annual spring game is a chance for younger players to show what they have in a competitive atmosphere in the hope of being recognized as a someone who can contribute to the team during the season.

It served that purpose for Grand Valley State University this past weekend, but after the game it was a little scary to think of what next year’s team will be capable of after integrating all of its younger players into the system.

The Laker Blue offense downed the Laker Black defense 107-65 in a modified scoring system. It awards points to the offense for first downs, big plays and touchdowns and to the defense for disruptive plays, stalled drives, turnovers and defensive touchdowns.

It was the highest offensive output in GVSU Spring Game history, and no, the Lubbers Stadium scoreboard does not go to triple digits.

After losing Jimmy Berezik before the national championship game last year, the Lakers displayed a much-improved depth at the running back position. Freshman Hersey Jackson, who was redshirted this year, carried the ball six times for 91 yards and a touchdown in the game, including a 52-yard run during his second drive.

“He probably won’t be an every-down back, but he’ll get his carries,” said GVSU head coach Matt Mitchell, who will enter his first season as head coach in the fall. “I’ve never been around a successful program that didn’t have a running game. I have to go review the tape, but I don’t think I saw him shy away from contact once, and we’ll need that.”

Neither did I. Whenever he caught a linebacker or defensive back trying to make an open-field tackle on him, Jackson plowed past him in a way that resembles Adrian Peterson. At no point did it take less than two defenders to take down the 6-foot, 215-pound Allendale native, and in his 52-yard touchdown run he demonstrated the breakaway speed necessary to pull off huge gains during the regular season.

Freshman Norman Shuford demonstrated his versatility in running five times for 31 yards and a touchdown as well as catching two passes for 19 yards. Freshman Michael Ratay carried the ball eight times for 55 yards and a score, and freshman Billy Seiler carried 10 times for 44 yards.

As for the quarterbacks, there are some things left to be desired. Senior quarterback Kyle McMahon, who transferred from Eastern Michigan University, did not participate in Saturday’s action in order to remain healthy. It looks as if he will begin the season as the starting quarterback.

Freshman Heath Parling probably had the best showing of the few that did participate. He showed quick decision making and accuracy in going 16-of-24 for 190 yards and a touchdown. Freshman Isiah Grimes showed off a big arm, but his accuracy at the moment suitable for the collegiate level. He went 6-of-17 for 100 yards and a rushing touchdown, but he also threw two picks in the process.

Defensively the Lakers showed an improved depth in the secondary, something that became a weakness in last year’s national championship game. Freshman cornerback Donavan Wilson tallied two interceptions and six tackles while sophomore cornerback Vince Beachem tallied 12 tackles.

In fortifying its experienced members with this young talent, the Lakers should pose a significant threat in seeking to return to the NCAA National Championship game for a second consecutive year.

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