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Even with back-to-back 1,000 yard rushers, the offense of the Southern Oregon football team had some work to do during this year’s Spring practices.

SOU head coach Steve Helminiak likes what he has seen so far and that offense will be on display Friday night at the annual Black and White Spring Game. This year’s game gets underway at 7 p.m. at Raider Stadium and will feature a real game between evenly divided teams.

With last year’s 1,000-yard rusher Brandon Baldwin sitting out the Spring while recovering from surgery, the Raiders have been able to get a look at a pair of new faces in the backfield.

Mike Springer and Marshawn Friloux have been given the chance to shine.

Springer is a transfer from Sierra College who red-shirted last year, while Friloux is a transfer from Cerritos Junior College.

“Even with Brandon being out, the running backs have been a major bright spot during Spring ball,” Helminiak said. “They both are major threats and will give us some different options next year.”

The Raiders have also gotten an extended look at a pair of hopefuls at the quarterback position.

Last year starter Paul Sweeney and transfer Mike McDonald (Tennessee-Chattanooga) have been splitting snaps during the Spring.

“Paul has made some major strides this year,” Helminiak said. “He’s taking better command of the huddle and has a better understanding of the offense this year. Mike has been a great addition and has pushed Paul and provided a great challenge at the position.”

The Raiders have also seen some new faces step up along the offensive line and at receiver.

With three holes to fill along the line, the Raiders can count on returners Derek Short, Zach Urrutia and John Roy. This Spring, Jacob Ayala and Spencer Hilsinger have both stepped up and Helminiak is excited to see the progress of Will Hoefer who has been hurt during the Spring.

At receiver, the Raiders are set with Vance Beach on the outside and Helminiak expects Danny Keenan to continue to improve.

Adaggio Barone and Drew Steindl also return for the Raiders and newcomer Isiah Watson will give the Raiders plenty of depth.