Clemson Holds Single Practice

Aug. 16, 2005

Clemson, SC – Dustin Fry returned to practice, but Roman Fry missed practice on Tuesday. The offensive line shuffle continues due to nagging injuries to the Clemson linemen. The Tigers practiced once for three hours on the practice fields behind the Jervey Athletic Center on Tuesday.

Tommy Bowden’s team is in a run of days in which it will practice twice one day and once the next, a system put in place by the NCAA three years ago. The Tigers will be back to two-a-day practices on Wednesday, working from 8:15 AM to 10:30 AM and 4:30 Pm to 6:30 PM. Clemson will also have two practices on Friday and next Monday before taking a day off on August 24, the first day of school.

Dustin Fry had missed the last week of practice due to a pulled hamstring. He finally was back in an orange jersey and worked the complete practice at center. But, Roman Fry (no relation, but in the same class) was limited by the same injury, a pulled hamstring, and was in a yellow jersey. Roman had been handling the center position in Dustin’s absence. Fry also has experience at offensive guard.

Linebacker Anthony Waters missed his second day of practice due to a turf toe and Kelvin Grant was also in an yellow jersey due to a separated shoulder. Bowden said on Monday that he does not expect Grant to play in the opener against Texas A&M.

Bobby Williamson missed practice on Tuesday with a case of stomach flu. Cole Downer, the backup at the tight end position entering camp, has played well and is now listed as first team. “Cole has played well and has caught the ball better in camp so far,” said Bowden.

Bowden commented on the play of Michael Hamlin after practice when he gathered with the local writers. “Michael Hamlin is seeing time as the backup at both safeties right now. He would be the third safety if we played tomorrow. Roy Walker would be the fourth. Roy is coming back from injury (torn ACL) and is making progress, but right now Michael would be the backup at both positions.”

Bowden also said that Chris McDuffie had a good day of practice at offensive guard. The red-shirt sophomore lettered at defensive tackle last year, but was moved to the offensive line last week. “I was impressed with Chris McDuffie. He has a lot to learn, but we have time to prepare him before the first game. He has done a good job picking up the offense so far.”