Beech putting defensive pieces together

HARTSVILLE Although a run-oriented offensive team such as Beech High’s football squad might not get be able to answer all of its questions during 7-on-7 work, the Buccaneers are getting some valuable feedback on the defensive side of the ball.

Tuesday’s workouts at Trousdale County pitted Beech against the host Yellow Jackets, along with Cannon County, Macon County, Portland and Region 6-5A foe Station Camp.

The Buccaneers were slated to use two teams in the afternoon session, but only junior quarterback Nelson Smith was available, so Beech opted to use only one team.

Green Wave football awakens from dead period

Buccaneer head coach Anthony Crabtree said he was pleased with Smith’s development.

“He’s doing a great job,” Crabtree said of Smith. “One thing that’ll help his confidence is if we can catch the ball more consistently. But he’s playing really well right now.”

However, the Buccaneers’ focus rested with their secondary. Junior defensive back Ty Dean is a potential starter, and intercepting two passes against Macon County did not hurt his chances.

“He’s a solid player,” Crabtree said of Dean. “He’s one of our better (defensive backs) and one of our better receivers.”

Others such as juniors Jahmal Robinson, Garrett Butler and senior Chris Peach have opportunities to step into starting roles this season.

“We’ve got some guys who are stepping up every day with a chance to fill a spot,” Crabtree said. “That’s what I tried to talk to them a little bit about, after it was over.”

Station Camp’s Tyler Thompson eager to get back under center

Beech hosts McGavock and White House Heritage for 7-on-7 workouts on Thursday evening. The Buccaneers open practice in full pads on Monday morning and travel to Brentwood for their first scrimmage next Friday. Beech hosts Wilson Central to open the regular season on Aug. 19.

Reach Chris Brooks at cbrooks@tennessean.com or at 615-575-7118. Follow him on Twitter @CB_SumnerSports.