Dawson talks defensive line

Frost himself is a former player at that level as is Travis Fisher, Troy Walters, Kevin Smith and Barrett Ruud. A trio of coaches spent time on staff with the Philadelphia Eagles - Erik Chinander, Greg Austin and Mike Dawson.

Dawson, who spent the last three years with Chip Kelly in Philadelphia and is now UCF's defensive line coach, loves being in Orlando.

"Oh man, I love this," he said after a recent practice. "This is great. I'm from the Northeast, grew up there and have worked there most of my life. Being down here, it's like you're on vacation. I walk out my front door and it's 72, 73 degrees and it's going to be a nice day every day. It's sunny. It's beautiful.

"Working for Coach Frost and this staff is just awesome to me," Dawson said. "Look at this staff he put together. If you take a step back, look at the NFL experience these guys have as players and coaches. Guys who have been or will be head coaches on this staff. It's really, really impressive to take a look at. Having him at the top as a leader, if you're an outsider looking in and say, 'Hey, this is his first camp coming in as a head coach,' there's no way you would believe it. He's hit the ground running. He has a great attitude and has been a great leader for us. For everybody jumping on board, he's a great guy to work for. I'm just real happy to be here."

As for his defensive line, Jamiyus Pittman is the leader of the group having seen extensive action the past two seasons. Tony Guerad and Joey Connors have some experience. Beyond those three, players like freshman Trysten Hill could see immediate action. Aaron Cochran, who spent last year as an offensive player, has moved over to the position. Also in the mix are junior college newcomer Josh Odigie, A.J. Wooten, Jock Petree and Brendon Hayes, among others.

UCFSports.com caught up Dawson after a weekend practice.

I believe you're about nine practices in. Looking back at to the totality of everything, I know going into camp I'm sure you'd like to have a little more depth, but Coach Frost said after the first few days that he was pleasantly surprised at how the d-line has been doing. How would you assess things so far?

"I think we've put in a lot of good work so far. I think we need to put in a lot more. We've made some good strides, but we have a long way to go. The guys have come in with a great attitude which is the most important part to me. They're willing to grind, willing to work, getting better every single day. That's all I can ask for."

When I look at that group, Jamiyus Pittman, I would tend to think he's the leader of that group. Is he doing the things that you want to see from an upperclassman with experience?

"Pitt has come into this camp with a real good mindset. I think he's at the point now where he's just thirsty for more football knowledge. He wants to know the whys, not just the hows or what to dos. He's doing a real great job learning. He's doing a great job communicating, helping the younger kids come along and helping them improve. He's doing a great job for us."