Sept. 11, 2003

The 25th-ranked Gamecocks continued their preparation for Saturday’s game in Athens against the No. 8 Georgia Bulldogs with a Thursday afternoon practice. Head coach Lou Holtz met with the media following the workout and offered the following comments:

“I am concerned with our defense because they did not practice well today, which is unusual. The execution was poor. Maybe they are intimidated by Georgia, I am not sure. The offense had a pretty good week of practice but we have digressed since Tuesday.”

“Josh Brown will be able to punt Saturday and is making the trip. If he can’t go it will be Joey Bowers or go for it. Chavez Donnings has been cleared to play and will start at wide receiver but has not had enough work to return kicks for this game.”

“One positive I had from practice is that I have been impressed with the way Blake Mitchell has played at quarterback on the scout team. He has shown good awareness, leadership and throwing ability.”

PERSONNEL UPDATE: Defensive linemen Randy Jackson and Brandon Schweitzer will not make the trip because of injuries. Schweitzer is expected to return to practice on Monday. Chavez Donnings has been cleared to return and will be in the starting lineup. Punter Josh Brown is probable for Saturday.

Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. ET and set for a CBS National broadcast. Verne Lundquist will call the play-by-play with Todd Blackledge providing analysis and Jill Arrington reporting from the sidelines.