Youngstown State football coach Doug Phillips opened his third spring practice today with a much more veteran team.

The Penguins return the majority of their front line players and will use the next 14 practices to work out the kinks.

"We want to make improvements each practice," said Phillips who is 11-17 overall.

"When we're coming on the field we have to take that focus and set goals to get better each day, " added Phillips who has more than 100 players participating.

One of those returning is WR Bryce Oliver.

"We have to attack the day and come out here and be professional, always running and its just the little things and fine tuning them," said Oliver who's back for his third season with the Penguins.

They have some holes to fill particularly at running back where Jaleel McLaughlin has graduated.  Liberty product Dra Rushton is set to take over that spot.

A year ago the quarterback spot was up in the air.  Salem product Mitch Davidson is the starter with Beau Brungard & Max Blanc battling for the backup spot.

The Penguins practice 14 more times and conclude practice with the Red - White game, April 15 at 11:00am.

21 Sports & WBCB will air a special Penguin GameDay Spring Edition prior to the game, Wednesday, April 12 at 7;00pm on WBCB TV