Tigers Hold Just One Practice

Aug. 17, 2005

Clemson, SC – Clemson was suppose to have two practices on Wednesday, but inclement weather forced cancellation of the evening session. As a result, the Tigers are scheduled to practice twice on Thursday, once on Friday and once on Saturday, meaning Clemson will most likely have one less practice than allowed by NCAA rules prior to the opening game.

The Tigers practiced in full gear for 24 five-minute periods in the morning. The last four periods were devoted to scrimmaging, as the number-one offense went against the number-one defense. A 70-yard run on a third and two play by Reggie Merriweather was one of the highlights of the morning practice. There were no new injuries.

“This may be a blessing in disguise,” said Bowden of his practice schedule between now and Sunday’s off day. “We will now have two practices on Thursday, one on Friday and one on Saturday (a stadium scrimmage). We want to be smart with this, we don’t want to kill them and have them leg tired by the first game.”

Bowden discussed the leadership of fullbacks Steven Jackson and Cliff Harrell after practice. “Both Cliff and Steven have worked hard and have had a good camp. Both are going to graduate and Steven is an honors student. Steven is listed first team fullback, but they are really 50-50 as far as the number-one slot. I have been pleased with both of them.”

Kelvin Grant continued to miss practice with a separated shoulder suffered in last Saturday’s scrimmage. Anthony Waters missed the morning workout with a turf toe. Roman Fry was upgraded to a green jersey and hopes to return to practice on Thursday. Waters could also return to practice on Thursday. Bobby Williamson, who missed Tuesday’s practice with stomach flu was back at practice, but in a yellow jersey as he recuperates.