Clemson Returns to Practice Fields

Aug. 15, 2005

Clemson, SC – Clemson returned to the practice field for two more practices on Monday. The Tigers did not practice on Sunday, but spent three hours at Death Valley taking pictures and signing autographs as part of Fan Appreciation Day.

The Tigers returned to the practice fields at 8:15 AM for a two hour and 15-minute practice in pads in the morning, then held a two-hour and 30 minute practice from 4:30 PM to 7:00 PM in the late afternoon. Clemson will practice twice this week on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, with single late afternoon sessions on Tuesday and Thursday.

“I said after the scrimmage that we had some missed tackles in the scrimmage on Saturday,” said Head Coach Tommy Bowden. “After looking at the film, it appeared most of the problems were the result of improper angles. We worked on that aspect of defense quite a bit this morning and in the afternoon.”

Bowden was concerned with the quarterback-center exchange during Monday’s practices. “We still don’t’ have Dustin Fry back at center and it is starting to be a concern. We had problems with the quarterback-center exchange on Monday whether we were in shotgun or the normal snap. We have to get that corrected. ” The centers and quarterbacks stayed a few minutes after practice on Saturday night to work on the problem.

Kelvin Grant missed both practices on Monday and it listed as doubtful for the season opener with Texas A&M. Grant suffered a separated shoulder in Saturday’s scrimmage when he made a diving 14-yard touchdown reception. The junior who had 23 receptions last season jogged on the sidelines with his arm in a sling during the afternoon practice.

“We have moved (freshman) Rendrick Taylor to the backup position behind Aaron Kelly,” said Bowden. “Kelvin and Aaron were having a good battle there. Aaron was still first team, but Kelvin was doing well. Rendrick and Tyler Grisham have both been running with the second team throughout practice, but their heads have been spinning at times.

Anthony Waters, who started all 11 games last year when he made 70 tackles, was also limited in practice due to a turf toe. It is not known how many practices the junior linebacker will miss due to the injury.

Starting center Dustin Fry was upgraded to a green jersey for Monday’s practices, but is still not at full strength and did not take part in any of the scrimmaging in the morning practice.