Aug. 20, 2003

Charleston, SC - Senior quarterback Willie Simmons threw for 98 yards and three touchdowns, while junior running back Ern Mills ran for 103 yards and two scores in The Citadel's third preseason scrimmage Wednesday afternoon on Summerall Field.

"It is hard to tell where we stand right now," stated Citadel head coach Ellis Johnson. "I am a little disappointed with our effort and our execution."

Johnson was bothered by the offense's ability to control the line of scrimmage and was let down by the defense's inability to stop the run.

"We have to control the line of scrimmage better on both sides of the ball," Johnson added. "The offensive line can't control the momentum for more than 45 minutes and the defense has to do a better job stopping the run in order for us to win."

The Bulldogs hauled in 16 receptions for six touchdowns, while the running backs carried the ball 71 times and found the endzone four times. Senior wideout Scooter Johnson led all receivers with five catches for 53 yards and a touchdown.

Defensively, senior defensive back Marcus Cohen returned an interception 60 yards for a touchdown, while senior linebacker Travis Hodge tallied a sack, a forced fumble and an interception. Others trying to catch the eye of the coaching staff were fellow freshmen Raleigh Jackson, who collected a sack, and Lukas Gleissner, who recovered a fumble. Linebacker James Greene jumped on two fumbles, while fellow linebacker Michael Ballentine had one sack. Senior safety T.J Rose added a fumble recovery.

Quarterbacks Willie Simmons and Justin Hardin are beginning to separate themselves from the rest of the pack due to their execution in the passing game. Freshman James Reiter has moved the ball at times, but has shown some inconsistency, while sophomore transfer Kenwood Lattimore has battled some nagging injuries.

"Willie and Justin are the two we are most likely going to go with," Johnson pointed out. "At this point they better than the others at executing the passing game. James is okay right now, but is still somewhat inconsistent and Kenwood is having a hard time due to some nagging injuries."

The Bulldogs return to the practice field Thursday morning at 8:00 am.