Spring practice kicked off on Monday for the Ball State University football team, and with it comes position changes for a few players.
Three of the biggest changes come on the defensive side of the ball. B.J. Hill, Warren Suess and Roger Morris will all switch to defense to provide more depth for a unit that finished 115th out of 119 teams in total defense during the 2006 season.
"I think we've got to continue to develop some continuity on the defensive side of the ball," coach Brady Hoke said. "We've got to play with more speed, and that's one of our goals, to play fast with a more up-tempo attitude."
Hill, who started two games at running back in 2006, switches to cornerback. The junior was moved primarily because of the development of MiQuale Lewis and Corey McGee. Coach Brady Hoke also said Hill's ability to play both sides of the ball was a factor.
"We thought that B.J could really help out our team on a full-time basis on defense," Hoke said. "Watching him go down the field as a gunner on punt and kickoff along with his aggressiveness and ability to play the game, we thought was a real positive for us."
Hill finished last season with 257 rushing yards on 67 carries and three touchdowns. His best game last year was against the University at Buffalo when Hill rushed for 116 yards and two scores.
Hill is listed on the second team on the depth chart behind Trey Buice and Trey Lewis.
Warren Suess, who flip-flopped between third and fourth on the depth chart at quarterback last season, will move to free safety.
"He's a big, rangy guy who runs well who can contribute to this team defensively and on the special teams," Hoke said.
The 6-foot-4 junior is listed fourth on the depth chart behind Eddie Burk, Marcus McClure and Dane Cook. Suess did not see the field in the 2006 season.
Roger Morris, who played in three games on the offensive line in the 2006 season, will move to defensive tackle.
Morris will battle with redshirt freshman Troy Davis to back up incumbent starter Amara Koroma at nose tackle in Ball State's 3-4 scheme.
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