Memphis' first spring practice is in the books and while it's way too early to make any grand observations, some things were clear in the Tigers first on-field action this season.


Here's five takeaways from Saturday.

DAVID MOORE WANTS THE STARTING QB JOB

This one is obvious considering Moore was the backup last year. When Brady White transferred to Memphis in January, the big question is how would Moore react since it was assumed he'd be the leader to replace Riley Ferguson.

Moore said all the right things Saturday about competition but he also made clear to tout his leadership credentials and experience to show why he should be the starter.

"I've been here for a minute and I've been learning and training, I feel like this is my job to take and so I'm going to do my best to win that," Moore said.

JACKSON DILLON HELD OUT OF CONTACT DRILLS

Prior to practice, several coaches talked about how having Jackson Dillon in practice would help elevate the linebacking corps just from his presence.

Dillon, who suffered a season-ending shoulder injury last year, was on the field Saturday and went through warm-ups but was held out of contact drills. The Tigers seem to easing him back into the fold but it may be a while before Dillon makes an impact in full-speed play.

Still, while Dillon awaits word from the NCAA on if he'll receive a sixth year of eligibility, seeing him back in uniform was at least the first step of him getting back to 100 percent. The question remains how soon will he be back to form.

THE RUNNING BACKS KNOW AND EXPECT A BIGGER ROLE

The quarterback battle also means a greater focus on the running backs and on Saturday, junior Patrick Taylor Jr. said Saturday that the group knows they have to help carry the offense.

"Me, Darrell (Henderson) and Tony (Pollard) have to step up in order for our team to do big things," Taylor said. "We have to bring up the offense up as the savages to make plays."

They didn't waste time showing that Saturday as all three backs impressed Norvell with how they showed they were to take an even bigger step forward

"You can see the confidence they have beyond where they've been and that should be a strength for our team," Norvell said.

THE LIBERTY BOWL LOSS STILL STINGS

Taylor said he watched the tape of the Liberty Bowl against Iowa State at least three or four times just for motivation this spring. Senior offensive lineman Drew Kyser noted that the loss meant he still has yet to win a bowl game during his Memphis career.

"I'm tired of coming up short every time," Kyser said. "This is my last year I got - probably the last year I'm playing football - so I'm trying to give everything I can so we can win one."

It won't be a surprise to hear players say that they have moved on but considering the turnover of five new assistants, it's good to see that they still use that game as fuel. The Tigers have high expectations to meet and remembering the past will keep them hungry this spring.

THOMAS MAKING EARLY ADJUSTMENTS AT SAFETY

For the second time in under a year, sophomore La'Andre Thomas has changed positions, sliding over from cornerback to safety. Defensive coordinator Chris Ball hinted at the move on Friday but Norvell elaborated more about it after practice.

"I love his communication and his leadership," Norvell said of Thomas.

Norvell said Thomas' past as a quarterback in high school will him transition to help fill the void of Jonathan Cook, who graduated after last season. Look for sophomores Carlito Gonzalez and Tyrez Lindsey to also help fill that role, which Norvell said will be key to watch this spring.

"You look at the safety position, it's just like the quarterback on offense. You've got to be able to communicate, you've got to be able to make 10 guys out there better and that's what we're looking for."


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