Cornerback Derrick Mays started five of the first 10 games last season, but fell from favor with Tech coach Tommy Tuberville saying near the end of the year that Mays lacked confidence.

Now it looks as if the junior from Killeen Shoemaker might resurface as Eugene Neboh’s backup at right cornerback.

Tuberville said he and defensive backs coach John Lovett agree Mays might have improved more than any other corner.

“He’s a lot more aggressive,” Tuberville said. “We all know he can run. He’s played a lot. He’s just been a little tentative.

“He and John Lovett spent a lot of time working and watching film and looking at what he did last year, and I think he could be a surprise for us if he can stay healthy. He’s one of those guys that tends to come down with (injured) hamstrings, but he really has practiced well the last 21/2 weeks.”

Junior-college transfer Bruce Jones still looks like the most likely backup to left cornerback Cornelius Douglas.