Charleston, S.C. The Citadel football head coach Kevin Higgins spoke with members of the media Monday, discussing the upcoming season-opening game against Charleston Southern, billed as the “Chucktown Throwdown.” Kickoff for the two cross-town rivals is set for 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 1 at Johnson Hagood Stadium.

“We are really looking forward to the start of the 2007 season,” said Higgins. “Our off-season was very productive and when the team steps onto the field this season we will be bigger, faster and stronger.”

“I am excited to see which guys step up into leadership positions. Our senior class has proven their ability to lead the younger guys and our success will be determined by their play.”

“Some of our freshman will play vital rolls for us this season. I would have liked to have had more of them redshirt, but we need them in backup rolls as well as on special teams. It should be exciting to see how they rise to the occasion.”

“We have talked a lot about this game (Charleston Southern) in the off-season. After losing to them last year, the team is anxious to get out there and bring it to them. Our guys respect Charleston Southern but at the same time are ready to play and earn their first win of the 2007 season.”

“I like that our opening game is against our cross-town rival. It gives us extra motivation to work hard to prove that we can beat them.”

“Charleston Southern has lost some key players but they are still returning a lot of experienced and talented guys. After losing their quarterback to graduation, I am going to assume that they will try to establish more of a running game. We will be ready for anything.”

“I know that this team will be well coached and prepared to play us. To beat them, we will have to be fundamentally sound in everything that we do. Our guys are ready for the challenge.”

For complete coverage of Bulldog Football, visit the official home of The Citadel Athletics at CitadelSports.com.