Clemson Football Practice Brief

Aug. 21, 2002

Clemson, SC – Clemson practiced in shoulder pads and shorts for two hours behind the Jervey Athletic Center on Wednesday. It was the first day of class at Clemson University and the first day of just one practice per day for the Tiger football team. The Tigers worked on correcting mistakes made in the scrimmage on Tuesday.

“The offense made some big plays in the scrimmage on Tuesday, it was the first time that had happened in the preseason,” said Bowden. “Most of them were on missed tackles. It was a long day with two practices in pads. When the offense hit a couple of big plays it seemed to suck the intensity out of the defense.

“But, there was renewed spirit today. The entire team came back today with a good effort.”

Another reason for the renewed spirit also could have been the result of an introduction into the game plan for Georgia. “We introduced the team to preparation for Georgia specifically. We reviewed Georgia coverages, that sort of thing. It breaks the monotony that you have in preseason and there was good enthusiasm.”

Bowden did not announce any position changes or depth chart changes. He did say that freshman offensive guard Nathan Bennett has played well and is competing for a backup position with Mark Jetton and Nick Black. “He has the size at 6-4 and 300 pounds to compete.” Greg Walker and Cedrick Johnson remain the starters at offensive guard.

One walk-on has been added to the roster. Thomas Hunter, a 6-4, 220 pound freshman from Marion, SC, has joined the team at wide receiver.

Eight players were on the injured list for Wednesday, but none of the injuries are considered serious. Dustin Fry continues to miss practice with a dislocated kneecap that he suffered in the first week of practice, but he could return next week. Nick Eason is also out after cardiac tests last week, but he could be back for the weekend. Cole Chason (PK) is out with a back problem, while Derrick Hamilton missed practice with a sprained ankle suffered in Tuesday’s scrimmage. He should be back by the end of the week.

Eric Coleman (hamstring), Chad Jasmin (pulled stomach muscle), Bernard Rambert (ankle) and Gary Byrd (ankle), also missed practice on Tuesday.