Football | 4/19/2016 6:41:00 PM

STATESBORO - The Georgia Southern football squad returned to the banks of Beautiful Eagle Creek on Tuesday afternoon, taking to the practice field for the first time since Saturday's Spring Game in Paulson Stadium. In what was easily the hottest day thus far of spring practice as temperatures soared to 88 degrees, GS went through a full workout in helmets and shoulder pads, looking to refine what has been installed up to this point.

After practice, GSEagles.com caught up with rising redshirt sophomore defensive tackle Zack Copeland on how spring practice has gone for him and his defensive line teammates.

Q: How are you feeling as you head toward the end of spring ball? 
ZC: I feel real good. I'm trying to build confidence everyday working with [Darrius] Sapp and looking at the offensive line trying to learn my keys. I want to keep working hard and I want keep doing what I need to do. 

Q: What's the leadership style of the defensive line? What's the motto you all play by? 
ZC: With these new coaches, they want us to be quick off the ball and fast. That's what I'm trying to give them. I know that's my edge – quickness. I'm just really trying to learn what I need to do at what time. 

Q: For the upcoming season, what're you hoping to capitalize on? 
ZC: Becoming a leader. Helping the team do what we can to succeed. 

The team will return to the field on Thursday for the 13th of 15 allowable practices. The location of the practice is to be determined.