Aug. 4, 2011

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - The Samford football program has added North Carolina State transfer Hans Rice, head coach Pat Sullivan announced on Thursday.

"We are excited about having Hans join our team," Sullivan said. "He's a player we were aware of when he was in high school. He is an outstanding person and a good football player and we are excited to get him in camp."

Rice, a linebacker from Eufaula, Ala., spent the last two seasons at N.C. State. After redshirting in 2009, Rice saw action in one game last season for the Wolfpack, tallying one tackle.

Rice was rated the nation's 25th-best weak side linebacker by Scout.com after his time at Eufaula High School under Coach Dan Klages. He tallied 87 tackles and had three interceptions as a senior for the Tigers. He was named to Prep Star's All-Southeast region class of 2009.

Rice registered 82 tackles (47 solo and 35 assists), including six tackles for loss as a junior. He also tallied one sack and caused two fumbles in 2007. He also played basketball in high school.

Rice and the Bulldogs will begin practice for the 2011 season on Monday, Aug. 8, at 4:40 p.m. The team opens the season on Sept. 3, when the Bulldogs play host to 2010 national semifinalist Georgia Southern. Kickoff for the season-opener is set for 6 p.m. from Seibert Stadium.