Aug. 28, 2001

Thursday's game will feature two pass-oriented units, the Mocs' "Air Raid" offense which debuted at Samford in 1999, and Samford's new one-back, multiple-wide receiver attack. The Mocs averaged 339 yards passing last year and set school passing records for the second consecutive season, while Samford averaged less than 100 yards passing per game in 2000.

The Bulldogs and Mocs open their seasons for the fourth consecutive time, with UTC holding a 3-0 advantage in those games. Both teams expect their defenses to be improved from last year, as both teams return eight starters. Offensively, however, the teams are in different circumstances. The Chattanooga system is the same, but the Mocs will start a new quarterback behind a solid veteran offensive line. He will also have the services of All-American candidate, receiver Cos DeMatteo.

Samford returns two offensive starters from last season, junior quarterback Josh Kellett and junior wide receiver Aryvia Holmes. The experienced Kellett has started 20 of his 22 games behind center for Samford, while Holmes has led the team in receiving his two seasons and many expect 2001 to be his breakout season. The big question for Samford is the offensive line, where each member will start his first game vs. UTC.

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