Feb. 26, 2003

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - Samford head coach Bill Gray added two more players to his 2003 freshmen class. Gray announced the signing of defensive linemen Ray Neal, Jr. and Clyde Triplett Wednesday. The Bulldogs have now signed 20 players for their inaugural season in the Ohio Valley Conference.

Triplett (6-2, 260) prepped at Mount Zion High School in Jonesboro, Ga. and earned 2002 Atlanta South Metro First team honors. He was also named Second Team All-Region as a senior. He was chosen Mount Zion's best offensive lineman. Triplett joins teammate David Fisher in Samford's 2003 signing class.

Neal (5-11, 290) recorded 55 tackles, 19 assisted and 12 tackles for loss as a senior at Northside High School in Warner Robbins, Ga. A four-year starter, he helped Northside compile a 46-7 record in four seasons and to two Region 2-5A Championships. Northside also finished as state runner-ups. Neal was named All-Middle Georgia as a senior. He was chosen All-Region 2-5A and All-Houston County as a junior and a senior. Neal also was chosen 2nd Team All-State.

Samford has now signed nine Georgia, six Alabama, three Tennessee and two Florida players.