Francisco Mauigoa, the Canes’ best linebacker, is out of spring practice due to an injury; thus, Aguirre will be able to play alongside Bissainthe with the starting defense.
“Popo has done a great job,” UM linebackers coach Derek Nicholson said about Aguirre. “He’s made significant progress since the end of the year. He communicates effectively.
He believes in what he’s doing. “It’s his first spring. He did not arrive early last year. He has gotten better every day. I’m enthusiastic about his future.” What about Washington, another second-year player?
If there’s one thing you see, it’s his speed, general athleticism, and feel for the game, knowing his way around the football field in different locations since he also plays multiple positions depending on the package and what we’re doing.”
Regarding Hayes, “Adarius, full pads, was out there [Thursday after an earlier injury] and he was thumping, so that was really good to see,” Nicholson said. “You can see him confidently trotting around there, which you like to see from a young player.
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Nicholson, who was named co-defensive coordinator this week, stated: “We are fairly young but very talented.” ▪ Bissainthe should improve his pass coverage and become an outstanding run stopper for UM.