Oct. 3, 2005

The South Carolina football squad began preparations for Saturday’s 1 p.m. Southeastern Conference battle with Kentucky with a 90-minute practice Monday night. Those who wore yellow (non-contact) jerseys included Blake Mitchell, Andy Boyd, Jonathan Hannah, Taylor Rank, William Brown and Shea McKeen. Following the practice session, head coach Steve Spurrier addressed the media:

“We had a little bit better practice tonight. Hopefully we can represent our university in a more competitive manner this week.

“Blake (Mitchell) was able to jog around a little bit. Right now I’d say he’d probably be able to play this week watching what he did out there. I think he probably should be ready by Saturday. He’s going to throw a little bit tomorrow.

“I’ll be pleased if we play at a high effort level. Hopefully we’ll play a little quicker and faster. Hopefully we’ll coach a little better. Hopefully we can get the right players on the field.

On the offensive line: “There might be a quick hook on some guys if they don’t play a little bit better than last week. A lot of guys deserve a chance – give them a shot and see what they do in games. Na’Shan (Goddard) has graded out a little higher than most of them.

“Tight ends have been a struggle. We have Dave Laggis at tight end. He’s come over from defense and is probably our second tight end. Carson Askins is our starter and we’re going to let (Robert) Pavlovic rest a little bit this week. He’s had his problems out there. We’ll let Laggis have his chance.”