August 26, 1998


Furman's Ruff Cleared To Return; Offense Continues To Impress Johnson

GREENVILLE -- Furman's football program received good news early Wednesday when tests on starting linebacker Orlando RuffÕs knee revealed the Paladin senior did not sustain any ligament damage after getting banged up in Monday's practice.

"Orlando will probably practice tomorrow, but we won't push him. It will be good to get him back," said Furman head coach Bobby Johnson.

Ruff underwent an MRI Tuesday afternoon after suffering what Furman head trainer Brian Reese called "a slight hyperextension" of his right knee. "The tests were negative as far as any ligament damage is concerned," Reese said.

"At first I thought I was going to be out until next week, but now I can go as is," Ruff said late Wednesday. "That's good because I need the conditioning to get ready for next Saturday (Furman's season opener against Clemson)."

In addition to the good news on Ruff's return, Bobby Johnson again praised the work of his offense.

"I'm really pleased with our offensive execution. It's a lot for any defense to stop when our offense is executed well, and that is the key. I thought we looked good in all phases today. We ran the ball well, including some options, and passed it well."

Johnson especially praised the work of his squad's two sophomore quarterbacks, Justin Hill and Brent Rickman.

"We are much sounder than we were a year ago in taking care of the football. Last year we killed ourselves with turnovers. This year I think the maturity of our offense and our quarterbacks is showing."

While pleased with his offense, Johnson said little about his defensive unit following Wednesday's two-hour practice.

"We're pretty banged up on defense. We're thin in several spots, and it was hot. They're pretty stripped out right now."

Furman continues its twice daily practices on Thursday before wrapping up its pre-season on Friday. The Paladins open the 1998 season on Sept. 5 against Clemson.


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