August 18, 2000

THUNDERSTORM CUTS SHORT FRIDAY PRACTICE;
PALADINS PREPARE FOR SATURDAY SCRIMMAGE

GREENVILLE -- A thunderstorm cut short Furman's Friday afternoon practice, but Paladin head coach Bobby Johnson says his team made progress in preparation for Saturday's scrimmage in Paladin Stadium.

"We took care of some of the things we wanted to address, and actually the storm may help us because it gives our guys a chance to get off their feet and hopefully make them fresh for the scrimmage," Johnson said following his squad's shortened workout.

Furman's Saturday Purple-White scrimmage, scheduled to start at approximately 2:00 p.m., will highlight Fan Day at Paladin Stadium. Players and coaches will be on the field for autographs 30 minutes prior to the start of the scrimmage.

"We are looking forward to some productive work and getting a look at some people who have been limited lately," Johnson added.

Among those expected to return to action on Saturday are receivers James Thomas and Bear Rinehart, two players who have been sidelined with hamstring strains. Players contending for starting jobs who are expected to miss Saturday's action include nose guard Steve DeBeer (concussion), defensive end Eddie Overdyke (shoulder subluxation), and wide receiver Bryant Huguley (strained hamstring).

Furman, which returns 17 starters off its 9-3, 1999 Southern Conference championship, NCAA playoff squad, opens its 2000 season on Sept. 2 against Elon in Paladin Stadium.