Sept. 25, 2001
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - Samford Head Coach Pete Hurt had his troops back in full pads and on the practice field today, continuing preparation for the next road game with Nicholls State on Sept. 29.
The Bulldogs began their two-quarterback system last Saturday in the triple overtime win against Gardner-Webb, drawing big plays from junior Josh Kellett and freshman Ramon Nelson. In his first game, Nelson passed for 50 yards and also rushed for 50 yards and a touchdown. Kellett was 11-for-22 for 150 yards passing and scored the winning touchdown on a 6-yard run in the third overtime period. "Part of the game plan for the Tennessee Tech game that was postponed was to pay them both, so they just had to wait another week," said Hurt. "Josh understands that Ramon is playing because they both bring something different to the table, not because he (Kellett) has done something wrong or has been ineffective. They both have certain strengths and we want to have as many play-makers on the field at one time as possible, and this allows that to happen."
Ten different Bulldogs recorded career highs in last weekend's win, including sophomore running back Fred Gilliam's 142 yards on 27 carries. Gilliam scored with 5:32 remaining in the fourth quarter to give Samford its first lead and then scored the Bulldogs' first TD in overtime.
Samford's new pass-oriented offensive system is reaping benefits and the change has become quite evident. Through two games the Bulldogs have attempted 70 passes, a feat that was not achieved until the fifth game against Nicholls State last season.
"It's hard to believe, but this is the first time we've had to play a game on Saturday and then prepare for a game the next week," said Hurt. "After the Chattanooga game we had a week off, and then we didn't play Tennessee Tech. I think we'll find out more about our team this week and when we play the game this weekend. It seemed like they were struggling a bit at times today, but I think that will get better as the week proceeds. I think Nicholls is a better team that Chattanooga and Gardner-Webb, so we have our work cut out for us this week."
