Sept. 11, 2002

Similar schedules completely different styles. Samford coaches preached mental toughness on Wednesday as the Bulldogs continue preparations for Saturday's showdown with Nicholls State.

The Bulldogs and Colonels each opened the season with wins over Division II schools, they each lost in week two to Division I-A schools, and they meet at Seibert Stadium on Saturday in their first battle against a I-AA opponent. That is were the similarities end. Samford will spread the field with five wide outs and throw the ball 35-40 times a game. Nicholls State has thrown seven passes all season. The Bulldogs continued work this week on defending the triple option. But the Bulldog coaches know it's a lot different in practice than in a game situation.

On offense, Samford will attempt to build on the momentum of the second half against Baylor. Ray Nelson and Josh Kellett will likely each see time at quarterback, converted defensive back D.J. Stancil will make the transition to tailback, and Aryvia Holmes will continue his assault on the record book? Holmes, currently at 2,089 yards, is moving ever closer to the career receiving yards record of 2,424 yards.

Defensively, the Bulldogs will face the triple option for the first and likely the only time this season. Wednesday's practice was a study in discipline and the mental portion of playing defense, staying with your responsibilities. Coaches feel that the key to a victory on Saturday is playing with discipline on defense and making the most of opportunities on offense

Kickoff against Nicholls State is 6 p.m. on Saturday at Seibert Stadium