Saturday Clemson Football Practice report

by CU Athletic Communications - Sat Aug 21 13:14:48 GMT-04:00 2010

Swinney after practice audio (MP3 Format)

Clemson, SC—Clemson had plenty of practice for the “Wet Ball Drill” on Saturday morning during an 18-period practice in Clemson Memorial Stadium. The entire team will return to Death Valley on Sunday for Fan Appreciation Day.

The team will be available on Sunday afternoon from 3:00 Pm to 5:00 PM for pictures and autographs with Clemson fans on the concourse of Clemson Memorial Stadium. The event will be held regardless of weather conditions, as all the players will be under the North and South stands concourses.

Saturday morning’s practice was held in a consistent rain. It was not a foreign experience for the veteran Tigers, who played six of seven home games in some degree of rain last year.

“It was a good practice,” said Swinney. “You have to be prepared to play in all kinds of weather conditions. We were aware of that last year when he played in rain it seemed every week.

“We have now completed three weeks (of preseason) just two weeks to go. Two weeks from today we will play a game against an opponent and we are all anxious for that opener. You get tied of competing against your teammates.

“I am pleased where we are so far. We have had good practices, shown good spirit and energy.”

Swinney is looking forward to Sunday. “We rank at the top in attendance in the ACC and we have such a great atmosphere at Death Valley. That is due to the great support we have for our fans. I addressed the team about that after practice today. The people coming on Sunday are the fans who support this program and make this a great place to play college football.”

There were no new injuries reported on Saturday. Roderick McDowell, who had a concussion in Tuesday’s practice was in a green jersey, but continues to get more and more work. Defensive end Andre Branch is still recovering from a virus. He was at practice, but did not participate. Scotty Cooper is still out with a neck strain. DeAndre Hopkins was in a green jersey recovering from a shoulder injury, but is expected to be full strength early next week.