.png&width=32&height=32&type=webp)
The University of Mississippi Athletics
Rebels Put On Shoulder Pads On Wednesday
8/11/2004 | Football
Aug. 11, 2004
OXFORD, Miss. - After two practices in just shells, the Ole Miss football team put on shoulder pads Wednesday for the first time during the 2004 pre-season practice. Although still in shorts, head coach David Cutcliffe was impressed with the action on the field, in particular the defense.
"Practice was good again today," said Cutcliffe. "I think our defense is playing real physical out there and that was evident today. Again, its early, but I did like our defense's attitude tonight."
The Rebels went through their third-straight practice Wednesday night, however due to the possibility of rain the drills were moved to Vaught-Hemingway Stadium from the practice fields adjacent to the stadium. Rain was avoided the majority of the practice, but light rain arrived for the last 20 minutes of action.
Ole Miss spent time working on individual drills for the first part of practice before breaking into offensive and defensive groups for scheme work.
While the defensive unit made a positive impression on Cutcliffe Wednesday evening, the offensive leader continues to impress on the other side of the ball.
"Micheal Spurlock is practicing extremely well," said Cutcliffe. "He is throwing the ball well and is a doing a very nice job with the offense."
Cutcliffe has also enjoyed getting the first glimpes of the 2004 recruiting class in action, although his time with them has been limited.
"It's difficult under these circumstances to get a lot of evaluation," said Cutcliffe. "I am pleased with what I see. They are learning on the run what to do, but I see a lot of athleticism and enthusiasm.
Ole Miss will open the season against Memphis, on Sept. 4. Kickoff with the Tigers is slated for 6 p.m., in Vaught-Hemingway Stadium/Hollingsworth Field.
