THOMASVILLE — After Thomas County Central’s defense dominated through spring drills, the Yellow Jackets’ offense heated up along with the weather Tuesday.

During the Jackets’ final practice without full pads — Georgia High School Association teams are allowed to practice in full pads for the first time today — Central’s offense found some footing. Of course, Central coach Bill Shaver said it was a logical step for the offense to improve.

“In the spring, Shawn (Bryant) wasn’t in there, Trace Wilson wasn’t in there and Taylor Payne was not there,” he noted. “So, there were a few of our key guys not in there and the defense had all of them there.

“Plus, right now, Caleb Heard is a little hurt on defense and that hurts them a little bit. It’s just a little give-and-take.”

Part of the offensive improvement came in the passing game, as Payne completed two big passes in 11-on-11 drills. While the Jackets’ aerial attack is in rhythm after passing scrimmages this summer, Shaver did acknowledge some additional encouraging signs in that area.

“Taylor made a couple of real big throws there during that time,” he said. “Coming off all that passing during the summer, the timing is probably down better on that than the running game, but that’ll come as we can do some live blocking.

“Of course, in passing league, you didn’t have that rush in there and I’ve been real pleased with the way Taylor has stood in there and thrown the ball.”

Also pleasing Central’s first-year head coach was the way the Jackets handled the heat during Tuesday’s practice.

“Condition-wise, I’ve thought we’re in really good shape,” Shaver said. “The guys spent all summer really getting themselves in good shape and doing what we ask them to do. Of course, (Tuesday) was tough — the first really, really hot day and we went out after being in school all-day, so it was a full day. So, naturally, there was a little sluggish there.

“We’re pleased with the effort and (today) we’ll find out what they’re really made of because the live bullets will start flying.”