FLORENCE, Ala. -- The first day in full pads went as expected for University of North Alabama Head Football Coach Chris Willis as the Lions had some high spirited exchanges on the practice field Thursday.

The Lions, in their sixth day of practice, went live for the final 45 minutes of the day, with the offense dominating for most of the day.

"There was a lot of excitement knowing this was the first day in full pads, and everyone on this field is competing for a job," Willis said. "I want to see us compete. I want to see us do things the right way. And every day is like a tryout for these guys and the competition gets a little intense."

The UNA defense dominated much of the practice time on Wednesday, but the offense flipped the script on Thursday.

The Lions scored on their first two possessions, with big gains coming through the ground game. Parker Driggers and Tyler Price gained most of the yardage.

"The offense got challenged a lit bit and maybe embarrassed yesterday," Willis said. "Today they went up and down the field and had a big day."

Willis said having 50 returning lettermen and 21 returning starters is huge for the Lions.

"You are only as strong as your numbers," Willis said. "We've got a lot of veterans back who know what to do, and you need leaders on days like this where it's so hot but you have to stay in there and keep fighting."

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