The SMU football team began spring practices yesterday, but they did so without a key component to the team: a starting quarterback.

On signing day, June Jones said that the quarterback position would be open to competition. But with the suspension of Justin Willis from spring drills, the position may be more open than suspected.

“I think the players are getting to know us as coaches and getting to know each other,” Jones said. “And there’s going to be a trust and understanding between us and them.”

Practice was supposed to begin Monday but was canceled because of the inclement weather and will be rescheduled for a later date.

“I’m a guy that likes to win and likes to do things right; we’re gonna have fun doing it,” Jones said. “And I think the players are in for a real treat because some of the coaches we’ve hired are pretty awesome people and one of the best coaching staffs I’ve ever been around.”

Spring football will continue through March and end with the Red and Blue game on April 5.