.png&width=32&height=32&type=webp)
The University of Mississippi Athletics
Pittman Cleared to Play; Rebels Hold Final Practice in Pads
8/28/2002 | Football
Aug. 28, 2002
OXFORD, Miss. - Ole Miss head coach David Cutcliffe announced Wednesday that freshman running back Jamal Pittman of Columbia, Miss., has been officially certified eligible by the NCAA Clearinghouse.
Meanwhile, the Rebels continued preparation for this weekend's season-opener Wednesday with their final preseason practice in pads, as the team worked out in pads and shorts. Former Ole Miss coach John Vaught, who guided the Rebels to six SEC titles and a share of three national championships, spoke briefly to the team before practice and remained to watch almost all of the workout.
The Rebels focused on schemework as well as skills and conditioning throughout Wednesday's two-hour practice. Rebel head coach David Cutcliffe said he was pleased with the team's energetic effort, particularly on the offensive side.
"We threw and caught the ball as well as we have all preseason today," Cutcliffe said. "People were flying everywhere, and we look like we knew what we are doing. Most of the physical work is done now."
Ole Miss will practice without pads Thursday and hold a walk-through on Friday in making final planning for Saturday's matchup with Louisiana-Monroe. Game time is set for 6 p.m. CST in the debut of the newly expanded Vaught-Hemingway Stadium.
