Spring football was an adjustment period of great proportions for Central Florida's players who had undergone a different kind of spring work under former coach Mike Kruczek.

The pace was quickened dramatically -- two 25-second clocks were installed on each end of the practice field, guaranteeing something new would occur every 25 seconds.

More time was devoted to academics. Sixteen players were put on academic probation, with four being excused from spring practice. Those four were sent to a study hall while the team practiced.

"Things are done a certain way. Expectations are a certain way, and everybody understands that," defensive coordinator Lance Thompson told the Orlando Sentinel.

Even for the coaching staff and team functionaries. Sunglasses and hats -- normal wear everywhere in Orlando -- are banned at practices for all staff members.

Athletic director Steve Orsini is making sure new coach George O'Leary gets what he needs to build the Golden Knights' program to one that is better than average. A 30-foot observation tower was constructed between practice fields and a new digital video system was purchased.

Kruczek couldn't get those amenities during his tenure, but they were delivered to O'Leary in less than four months on the job.

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