Aug. 27, 2001

BIRMINGHAM - Samford Head Coach Pete Hurt said he was pleased with his team's up-tempo practice on Monday, and is now looking for his Bulldogs to remain mentally sharp for the season opener on Aug. 30 with Chattanooga.

Samford's classes also began on Monday, which was another reason that Hurt liked his team's performance on the practice field.

"I thought today's practice was better than the last couple we've had," Hurt said. "It was particularly good considering today was the first day of classes. We were more focused and we got some good things done in the up-tempo practice in shoulder pads and helmets."

The Bulldogs have several members of their freshman class that could see action Thursday night, including receiver Efrem Hill and quarterback Ramon Nelson. Injury at the running back position is also a concern for Hurt, because it is a position that is not incredibly deep with experience. Sophomore Fred Gilliam will start at tailback, but Hurt continues to point to the injury of Garrick McCarty as one that is most costly to the Bulldog backfield.

Junior quarterback Josh Kellett continues to improve and impress coaches in practice with his management of the new pass-oriented offense. However, Hurt added that he thought the Bulldogs did not "pitch and catch" the ball very well on Monday as the offense continued to prepare for what is expected to be an improved Chattanooga defense.

Defensively, Hurt singled out Darold Williams as a player who could see much playing time in 2001. Hurt commented on his level of improvement from last season and on how Williams' athletic ability has enabled him to be useful at a variety of positions on the defensive unit.

While Monday's practice was most likely the last up-tempo, live action practice prior to Thursday, Hurt will slow down practice on Tuesday and continue to ensure his Bulldogs' grasp of the game plan for the 7 p.m. game with Chattanooga at Seibert Stadium.