Feb. 23, 2006

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - The Samford football team held its second spring practice of 2006 Thursday afternoon at Seibert Stadium. The team worked out for about two hours in helmets and shorts.

"We're taking it really slow on both sides of the ball, just seeing who will compete," Samford head coach Bill Gray said. "We had to get the second day in shorts out of the way, and we will put the full gear on tomorrow.

"The biggest thing I've noticed is we have guys playing with some enthusiasm and running to the football," Gray said. "The concentration is there, but it looked like a typical second day after taking a few months off."

Jermaine Livingston during Thursday's practice.

Gray added he was pleased with what he saw from some of the new players that are participating in their first spring at Samford.

"I think (offensive lineman) Kyle Castles has come in, and has shown he is a guy who will be able to pick up the offense," Gray said. "The other new face who will have a chance in the fall is (safety) Matt Butler. Matt has done a good job in two days out here. You can tell he is a smart football player."

Samford will practice in full pads Friday afternoon at 3:45 p.m. at Seibert Stadium. The team's first scrimmage of the spring is scheduled for Saturday morning at 9:00 a.m. at Seibert Stadium.