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The University of Mississippi Athletics
Defense Controls Practice As Rebels Continue Fall Workouts
8/6/2008 | Football
The Rebels worked on individual and team drills, with the defense showing out for most of the afternoon while the Rebel coaching staff continued to preach the importance of finishing strong. “We started out pretty good today, but didn’t finish the right way,” said Rebel head coach Houston Nutt. “I thought the defense had a little more energy than the offense. We have got to learn how to finish. That’s been our theme song all summer. When you get to day three in the heat and we’re throwing a lot at them, it’s easy to have a mental bust. But, we’re looking for effort and to have a short memory. If you make a mistake this play, it’s about the next play. That’s why you have two-a-days.” The defensive line was the bright spot of the defense on the afternoon as a trio of players caught the eye of the coaching staff, including Marcus Tillman at the interior of the line. “If they’ll keep coming we have a real chance there (at defensive line),” Nutt said. “I like (Tillman) anywhere, but it allows us to put the best players on the field when you put him inside. He’s intelligent, tough and hard-nosed. We’re able to work more people at end. It’s a good feeling to have that luxury.” Also turning in solid performances in the heat were Greg Hardy and Peria Jerry. “(Greg) has been giving us a lot of effort,” Nutt said. “He’s hard to block. If we were playing against Greg Hardy we’d put four hands on him. He’s so quick and has a quick first step, has good moves and he can run all day. He and Peria Jerry have been disrupting everything.” The Rebels will continue with fall drills on Thursday as Ole Miss works toward opening day. The Rebels will take the field against
