August 23, 1999
Release: Upon Receipt

FURMAN NARROWING FOCUS ON SEASON OPENING OPPONENT;
DEPTH IN RECEIVING CORPS EMERGING

GREENVILLE -- As his football team began week two of the pre-season, Furman head coach Bobby Johnson said the squad's focus was beginning to narrow on Elon, the Paladins' Sept. 4 season opening opponent.

"We've pretty much stopped installing offensive and defensive sets, and we're beginning to pare down and concentrate on things to make us better and get us ready for Elon," Johnson said following Monday afternoon's practice that was interrupted by a thunderstorm.

Despite the 15 minute storm delay, Furman continued situational work during both practice sessions, covering short yardage, two minute offense, and special teams execution.

"We have our normal bumps, bruises, and sprains from Saturday's scrimmage, and a couple of guys are sick, but overall they continue to work very hard," Johnson added. "Today we had what we call a thud scrimmage where we don't take a guy to the ground. That's worked out well because it gives us a chance to go full speed without risk of a major injury."

In addition to complimenting the quality of his team's work on Monday, Johnson cited the emerging depth in the receiving corps.

"We feel really good about our receivers because of the development of James Thomas, Mark Rucker, and Bear Rinehart. They've all had excellent pre-seasons. James and Mark especially have made a lot of key third down plays, and we got Bryant Huguley back today, so we feel like we've got a situation where nobody can get on Desmond Kitchings (Furman's leading returning receiver) with a double team."

A pair of true freshmen along Furman's defensive front also continue to attract Johnson's attention.

"LeBryan Sperling is playing well, as is Eddie Overdyke. They are working at positions that present the biggest opportunities. Offensively, there's not a need for a freshman to come in and play, but I have been impressed with Peter White, especially his arm strength. He's got a little bit of savvy and a quick release, but's he's got a lot to learn."

Furman continues its two-a-day practices in full pads Tuesday morning with workouts scheduled for 6:20 a.m. and 3:20 p.m.

Paladin Pointers: Defensive linemen Jarrod Holmes (hamstring strain) and Ryan Spencer (quad contusion), tailback Quinton Burton (ankle sprain), and defensive back Chris Lowery (back strain) are expected to rejoin the squad in the next two days after being sidelined with injuries.