Clemson Holds Third Preseason Practice

Aug. 8, 2005

Clemson held what might be its only Sunday practice of the year, on August 7, a three-hour workout in a steady rain from 3:45 Pm to 6:45 PM. It was the third practice of 29 during the preseason as the Tigers prepare for their season opener against Texas A&M on September 3.

Clemson is not schedule to practice next Sunday, but will hold its annual Fan Appreciation Day at Death Valley from 3-5 PM. Clemson could practice on a Sunday when it prepares for its Thursday evening game at NC State on October 13.

The Tigers worked in shells (shoulder pads and shorts) for the first time on Sunday and the practices got a little more physical. The team will also practice in shells Monday night before donning the full uniform for the first time on Tuesday afternoon.

The rain was a welcome sight for the players as temperatures were in the 70s for most of the practice. Head Coach Tommy Bowden also said the rainy weather did not hamper the practice. “Really, with the skill position players it makes them concentrate even more,” said Bowden. “It makes the receivers concentrate more on catching the ball and they have to run precise routes and concentrate on their footing. The running backs have to concentrate on holding on to the ball. So in many ways it helps from a preparation standpoint.”

Bowden has discussed the play of freshmen throughout the first week and Sunday he discussed the progress of running back James Davis. “He has a chance to be in the mix for sure. You sign a tailback and coach a fullback. James has shown flashes already that he has some natural skills to help us.”

Bowden also singled out some team leaders so far in practice. “As far as leadership, I have been impressed with Jamaal Fudge, Charles Bennett, Chansi Stuckey, Charlie Whitehurst, Reggie Merriweather, Anthony Waters, Tye Hill, Cliff Harrell and Steven Jackson. The leadership has been good so far.”

Bowden also singled out Aaron Kelly as having had another good practice. “Aaron continues to do well at wide receiver. He has really improved from this time last year. We saw that in the spring. He is running first time so far, but Kelvin Grant has had three good days of practice also. We are looking for consistency from Kelvin and so far he has been out there for every snap.”

Only one player was in a yellow jersey on Sunday. Offensive tackle Zach Green missed the practice with a stomach ailment. There were no new injuries on Sunday.