Aug. 26, 2009

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - The Samford football team practiced for about two hours in full pads Wednesday afternoon at Seibert Stadium. The workout was the 21st of fall practice as the Bulldogs continue preparations for their season-opener at UCF on Sept. 5.

Samford head coach Pat Sullivan said the team went through a mental workout during Wednesday's practice.

"Today was a mental day, a learning day," Sullivan said. "It wasn't quite as sharp as you would want. Hopefully we can start getting our legs back a little."

Sullivan praised a few members of the defense who he said have shown improvement during fall practice.

"(Junior linebacker) Bryce Smith is doing a great job for us," Sullivan said. "(Sophomore safety) Corey White has shown a lot of good things as well.

"A couple of the young kids have come in and done a nice job," Sullivan said. "Two linebackers, Durell Hill and Darion Sutton, both have done well. (Defensive back) Justin Sly has also done well. We are glad that some of these young guys have come in and I think they will be able to give us some depth."

Samford will practice again Thursday afternoon in full pads. The practice is scheduled to begin at 4:40 p.m. at Seibert Stadium.

Samford opens the 2009 season on Saturday, Sept. 5, when the Bulldogs travel to Orlando, Fla., to take on the UCF Knights. The game is scheduled for a 6:30 p.m. (CT) start from Bright House Networks Stadium.