Aug. 17, 2004

Charleston, SC - Fifth-year senior Justin Hardin is winning the hearts and minds of his coaches and teammates as he continues to lead the 2004 Citadel football team into its second week of preseason practice late Tuesday afternoon on Summerall Field.

Hardin, a career reserve from Kannapolis, NC, has patiently waited for his opportunity to take over the reigns of the Bulldog offense for the last four years. After being redshirted in 2000, he did not see any action for the next two seasons, but late in 2003 Hardin looked as if he would be the front-runner for the starting job in 2004.

"Justin has waited patiently for his opportunity to lead this team," stated John Zernhelt, the 22nd head football coach at The Citadel. "He is a great leader on and off the field and everyone from the assistant coaches, including me, down to the players and managers respect him for it." Hardin had to watch from the sideline in 2001 as true freshman Mazzie Drummond took the snaps and again in 2002 as transfer quarterback Jeff Klein played every snap. But in 2003 with Clemson transfer Willie Simmons listed above him on the depth chart, Hardin finally got to see some game action.

Hardin played in five games and completed four of eight passes for 77 yards including a career long of 31-yards against Charleston Southern.

"Even though Willie brought a lot to the table with his athletic ability, we believe Justin has what it takes mentally and physically to be an efficient quarterback in this league," Zernhelt added. "He is very mature, intelligent and will even surprise you with his arm strength."

Hardin, who's brother Blair was a wide receiver for the Bulldogs from 2000-2003, hopes he can continue to build upon the success of the last two quarterbacks who have set multiple offensive records and won more games in the last two years, nine, than any quarterback has in the last three and a half seasons.

"I am excited for the opportunity to lead this team." Hardin stated. "Every time it looked as if I was going to get a chance, someone would come in and get the job. But this year coach Zernhelt told me it was my job to win and that is what I am going to do."

Personnel Report: Junior tight end Ryan Causey did not practice (Knee), Junior Fullback Zach Bryant is out for the season (Knee), freshman linebacker Steve Spann did not practice (Shoulder) and freshman running back Clint Cockfield went through drills without contact (Shoulder).