Aug. 13, 2004

Columbia, S.C. –
South Carolina’s football team went through its first day of double practices on Friday. The squad worked out in full gear in the morning, followed by position meetings and lunch. The team returned to the practice field at 4 p.m. for a workout in shorts, shoulder pads and helmets.

Injury report: C Fran Person is out with a concussion; DT Preston Thorne did not practice in the morning due to a sore knee; RB Andrea Gause did not practice in the morning due to a sore knee, but returned to practice in the afternoon; OL Gurminder Thind missed the morning workout with a pinched nerve in his neck and was limited in the afternoon session; C John Strickland was limited with an ankle sprain; DT Eric Stroman is out with a foot sprain.

Comments from defensive coordinator Rick Minter after the morning practice: “This morning was a physical, hard-nosed practice. There was more emphasis on the running game in the morning workout and the passing game in the afternoon workout. Of the new freshmen linemen, Marque Hall is beginning to separate himself. He should have the opportunity to play. He shows up during practice. He’s a real load. K.T. Mainord has also shown some good things, as has Matt Raysor. I think we signed three quality, SEC defensive linemen in those three. Preston Thorne’s knee is a bit tender now (Thorne had season-ending surgery during the middle of last year). The defense reported back in pretty good shape. They are responding pretty well to things. In Sunday’s scrimmage, we’ll be looking for who shows up in the heat of battle. I think our offense is challenging the defense tremendously. The Lindsey twins (Jordin and Dustin) are doing a good job. I can envision both of them being on special teams and right now, both are playing third-team linebacker.”

USC received good news Friday afternoon when school officials learned that freshman wide receiver Sidney Rice had been officially admitted to school. The Gaffney, S.C., native had been admitted conditionally a week ago, but there were some final admission documents that had to be certified and those were finalized on Friday. Matt Raysor was also conditionally admitted a week ago and the school is still awaiting final word on his status before classes begin on Aug. 19. Freshman fullback Antonio Lamar has still not been admitted.

Comments from quarterback Dondrial Pinkins following Friday morning’s workout: “All of the quarterbacks are playing well. We’re all working hard to nail down that starting role. We’re competing, but we’re having a lot of fun. We’re just trying to put the team in the best position to win. I go out there every day and just try to do my job and keep the number one position.”

The team will have a walkthrough Saturday morning followed by an afternoon practice that is closed. Head coach Lou Holtz and requested players will be available following the workout. Coach Holtz will be available in the press room behind the lobby of the football building at approximately 5:45 p.m. In the event of a change in practice plans due to inclement weather, an email advisory will be sent out.

FANS INVITED TO LOU HOLTZ CALL IN SHOW

Gamecock fans are invited out to the “Lou Holtz Radio Call In Show” Wednesday, Aug. 25 in the showroom of Pulliam Ford on Two Notch Road in Columbia. The 60-minute program is hosted by former Gamecock quarterback Todd Ellis and features head coach Lou Holtz. Coach Holtz will take calls from the listening audience and be available to visit with the fans.