BRANDON HERRING INTERVIEW

BIRMINGHAM, Ala.—The Samford football team held its fourth practice of fall camp with a two-hour workout in shells Tuesday afternoon at Seibert Stadium.

The practice was the second in shells for the Bulldogs, and the team will practice in full pads for the first time Wednesday. Co-Offensive Coordinator and Offensive Line Coach Brandon Herring said he likes the effort the players have given so far during camp.

"I think the guys are giving effort and trying," Herring said. "We're working out some young guys and trying to get them some more reps, and they seem to be doing alright with it."

One of the spots that has to be filled on the offensive line from last season is center. Sophomore Armando Bonheur made the move to center during the spring, and Herring says he continues to make progress since moving to the position.

"A lot of it is a learning process with him," Herring said. "The last three years, we've had a center there, and he has played and started every single game. Now, you're kind of starting over with a guy that's never played there before. It's kind of like every rep is a new thing for him, and he just has to continue to progress. But, he is really athletic and he's intelligent. We just have to keep going and keep progressing every day."

Herring pointed out some players on the offensive side who have caught his eye so far during the first week of camp.

"Karel Hamilton (wide receiver) has great hands," Herring said. "He's just one of those receivers who plucks the ball out of the air. Another wideout, Jeremy Brown, has had a really good camp so far. Andy Summerlin (quarterback) has been throwing the ball really well, and Tony Philpot (tight end) has had a good camp so far.

"Up front, Kasey Morrison and Kyle Champion are having good camps," Herring said. "I think, athletically, we have some freshmen who are going to be alright. Whether they are ready to play or not, I don't know. They have a long way to go, but I think, athletically, we have some good ones."

The Bulldogs will practice in full pads for the first time Wednesday afternoon. The practice is scheduled to begin at 3:50 p.m. at Seibert Stadium.

Samford opens the 2013 season on Friday, Aug. 30, when the Bulldogs travel to Atlanta to take on Georgia State in the Georgia Dome. The game is scheduled for a 6 p.m. (CT) start.