Sept. 27, 2005

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - The Samford football team practiced for about two hours in helmets and shorts Tuesday afternoon at Seibert Stadium. Samford plays host to Southeast Missouri Thursday night in a nationally-televised game on ESPN U.

"We had a good workout, it was probably a little more up-tempo for what is a normal Thursday practice," Samford head coach Bill Gray said. "Knowing what we have ahead of us on Thursday, we still had some things we needed to get done. I was pleased with the way the guys worked.

"The short week makes it difficult in a lot of ways to prepare," Gray said. "But, it gives us a chance to get back on the field after a tough defeat last week. It gives us less time to think about it, and a quicker opportunity for us to get out there and do something about it. I'm expecting a great effort out of our guys."

Gray said it was good for the team to be able to play at home again this week after three-straight road games.

"It definitely is nice to be able to sleep in your own bed the night before a game, and for our players to not have to travel," Gray said. "The three trips were tough, not only opponent-wise, but also traveling. It is definitely an advantage to be back at home."

Samford will hold a final walk-through on Wednesday at 4:15 p.m. at Seibert Stadium. Thursday's game is scheduled for a 6:30 p.m. kickoff, and the contest can be heard locally on WVSU-FM 91.1, or worldwide on the internet at www.samfordsports.com or www.al.com/wvsu.