Faulkner University

August 8, 2008

Faulkner head football coach Jim Nichols felt strongly that his team had made great progress since fall practice last August. His feelings were confirmed Friday at Cramton Bowl during the Eagles’ first practice in full pads.

     "You can certainly tell we’ve had a good off-season,’’ Nichols said. "We’re bigger and we’re stronger and we’re much more physical. These guys worked hard during the spring and summer. This team has come a long way in a year.’’

Running back Ryan Williams rushes through the defense during inside drills

      Faulkner worked largely on tackling drills during the two-hour workout and while the defensive technique was the focus, a pair of running backs caught they eye of Nichols and his staff.

     "I thought both freshman Ryan Williams and sophomore Brandon Lockhart ran the ball hard and were impressive today,’’ he said. "You always want to wait and see them in full pads before you really assess anybody, and these two guys stood up to the test.’’

Cornerbacks work on pass defense

     Nichols was also impressed with the work of the Eagles’ offensive line, which he says has come "light years’’ since last season. "I think our offensive line will be one of the most improved positions on the field,’’ Nichols said.

     Sophomore quarterback Phillip Moore continues to look good, as do his two backups – Nick Garrett and David Jones. Moore, Nichols adds, has grown into one of the key leaders on the Faulkner team.

Freshman kicker Win Knight puts one through the uprights at Cramton Bowl

Quarterback Philip Moore rifles a ball down field during offensive drills

Linebacker coach Dean Briggs leads a prayer with his group before working on assignments

"He knew that if this was going to be his team, he needed to act like it, and he has taken on that responsibility," he said.

     Faulkner will work on special teams for about an hour early Saturday morning, then will compete in a 60-play scrimmage that will start around 9:15.

     "It’ll be fun for the guys,’’ Nichols said. "It will pretty much just be basic stuff, but considering the break in the heat that’s expected I’m sure we’ll all enjoy it.’’

Head coach Jim Nichols takes a break from the action to talk with Faulkner president Dr. Billy Hilyer

President Hilyer address the team after Friday's practice.

     Faulkner opens its season Sept. 6 at Samford at 6 p.m., then returns to Cramton Bowl the following Saturday to host cross-town rival Huntingdon at 7 p.m.