Sept. 24, 2003

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - The Samford University football team practiced on the practice field on campus Wednesday afternoon in continuing preparation for the Bulldogs' first-ever Ohio Valley Conference football game against Southeast Missouri State Saturday night at Seibert Stadium.

"I feel like we got some work done today," head coach Bill Gray said. "I'm very pleased with the effort and attitude. Both sides are starting to polish up on some things we are implementing. We need one more day of practice, because we still made some mistakes that can be corrected.

"I think the guys are looking forward to playing another game, especially in front of the home fans," Gray said. "Hopefully we will have a good night weather-wise and we'll have a good crowd, and then all that will be left is for us to do our part."

Ohio Valley Conference Special Team's Player of the Week Ty Neil works on his punting during Wednesday's practice.

Gray praised the work of the scout teams after Wednesday's practice.

"Both scout units did a really good job of giving us a picture of Southeast Missouri State," Gray said. "On the offensive and defensive side, I thought we got a really good look. The better look they give us, the more prepared we will be going into the game."

The Bulldogs will hold their final full practice of the week on Thursday, and then will have a final walk-through Friday afternoon.

Saturday night's game between Samford and Southeast Missouri State is scheduled to kickoff at 6:00 p.m. at Seibert Stadium. The game will be the conference-opener for both teams, and will be Samford's first-ever Ohio Valley Conference football game. The contest can be heard live on WVSU-FM 91.1.