Aug. 12, 2004

Charleston, SC - The Citadel football team had its first day in shoulder pads early Thursday morning as they practiced for the first time as a full squad on Summerall Field. The practice session was moved up to 9:00 am to avoid any inclement weather associated with Tropical Storm Bonnie.

The Bulldog backfield benefited the most from the first day in shells as the coaches finally got an idea of what to expect from this experienced group. They are led by senior preseason all-conference selections Nehemiah Broughton and Ern Mills, along with junior fullback Porter Johnson and sophomore blocking back Nuru Goodrum. "Nehemiah, Ern and Porter are ready to go," stated assistant head coach Danny Lewis, who is responsible for coaching the running backs and the Bulldogs recruiting coordinator. "They are good enough to be the top backs in the Southern Conference, they just have to continue to improve and push each other to become the premier runners in the SoCon."

First-year head coach John Zernhelt was a little more hesitant about the stable of backs because the coaches still have not seen them in full pads.

"We have one more day of shells before we can go 100 percent with full pads," Zernhelt said. "That's when we will really find out how good they are."

The offensive coaches are excited about the position as they have more depth in the backfield than any other position on the field.

"We like freshman Montrell Lee's leg strength and Broughton looks to be bigger, stronger and faster than before his injury," stated Zernhelt.

The reserve backs include Chris Gibbs, who ran for 67 yards on 16 carries against VMI last season, and redshirt freshman Terrell Williams, who earned valuable experience in the spring with the absence of Broughton.

"Gibbs and Williams are talented backs but need to show some more effort," added Lewis. "Overall the young guys are all quality individuals with great attitudes and tireless work ethics."

The Dogs will practice again tomorrow in shells before donning full pads on Saturday. Friday's session will again be held on Summerall field, but start time has yet to be determined due to the inclement weather in the area. The Bulldogs open the season on September 4 against Charleston Southern in Johnson Hagood Stadium.