The Syracuse fan base got its second glimpse of what offensive coordinator Tim Lester’s new hybrid position could look like during Saturday evening’s Fan Fest scrimmage.

The hybrid, which was also featured in the Orange’s spring game in April, lined up mostly as either a slot receiver or on the wing next to the offensive tackle. SU head coach Scott Shafer has said it could also set up in the backfield, but that rarely occurred on Saturday.

While Shafer said the offense didn’t show much of its playbook, he pointed out a reverse by starting hybrid Ervin Philips that resulted in a touchdown and a first down off a reverse by backup Ben Lewis. On both plays, the hybrid lined up in the slot, ran behind the offensive line to get the ball and swung around the opposite side of the field.

Philips lined up most often next to the offensive tackle, where a traditional tight end would line up, putting an emphasis on his ability to block when the Orange ran the ball with him in that spot.

Shafer also mentioned freshman hybrid Tyrone Perkins’ two impressive catches during a skeleton drill without an offensive or defensive line. Perkins wore a white non-contact jersey throughout the first week of practice, but after Fan Fest Shafer said he’s excited about his potential.

Freshman Dontae Strickland has also been working with the hybrids throughout camp but sat out with a lower-body injury on Saturday. He’s expected to be healthy within the next few days, Shafer said.

Where the hybrid lined up:

Philips: 10 times in the slot, 15 times in the wing

Lewis: nine times in the slot, 12 times in the wing

Perkins: 10 times in the slot, 10 times in the wing

*These numbers are approximates due to occasional obstructed views. Approximately five plays were not included in these totals.

Published on August 16, 2015 at 12:07 pm

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