March 19, 2002

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - Samford's offense gave the defense a head start early in spring practice, but now gives indications that it's ready to jump back ahead. It will get that chance on Thursday as Samford plans to run through its last scrimmage of spring practice.

Early in the season the Samford defense held an advantage in practice and in live action scrimmages, due in part to more aggressive schemes and the insertion of additional plays in the Bulldog offensive playbook. The Bulldogs continued to work on those new packages on both sides of the ball on Tuesday, adding more to its repertoire in preparation for its last scheduled scrimmage on Thursday.

"We looked more like we have some practices under our belt today," said head coach Bill Gray. "I think the offense and the defense are coming along with some new facets that we have added since last season. They're ready to get after it on Thursday and I look forward to seeing what we can accomplish."

Gray singled out Rob DeLoach and Chip Adams as two players who should make significant contributions along the offensive line in 2002 for the Bulldogs. DeLoach, who has seen action at tackle and guard, was forced to learn the center position this spring after injuries took out Samford's top two snappers. Adams moved from defensive line to offensive tackle this spring and Gray says he is excited about having him along the front for two more years.

Samford also got limited action from a couple of players back from injury, including free safety Blake Roberson and running backs Fred Gilliam and Garrick McCarty.

Gray added that if he got what he wanted from Tuesday's practice after watching the film, Thursday's scrimmage would be the final practice for the Bulldogs before they begin spring break.