Aug. 5, 2010

CONWAY - Due to the heat advisory in the area Thursday, Coastal Carolina's second practice of the 2010 season was moved back three hours to the early evening for the players' safety.

The second day's practice started at 6:30 pm, with the squad in helmets, and lasted approximately three hours. The session was similar to the first, adding new wrinkles and plays. Also, similar to the first day, there were drills in the middle of practice to teach the importance of possessing the ball. While Wednesday's focus was mainly on securing the ball, today's emphasis was on creating the turnover, then either falling on the ball or "scooping and scoring."

There was a bit of good news and bad news for Thursday's practice. Quarterback Zach MacDowall suffered some cramps, forcing him to the sideline. While he did not get many repetitions, the two-year starter at the spot has a firm grasp on the offense. The good news was Aramis Hillary, a transfer from South Carolina, saw additional playing time and gained valuable on-field experience.

"We had guys cramping a little today," said head coach David Bennett. "Could you imagine if we went at 3:30 like we were supposed to? The fact is, you think you are doing the right things (drinking enough fluids and eating right) but you never really know until you get out here."

Only two days into practice, Coach Bennett was asked who has been a pleasant surprise.

"I really like the adjustment Jamie Childers has made in his move to tight end," Bennett said. "Also, Ben Collins has worked extremely hard and we have really good depth at tight end."

The Chanticleers will ramp up practice a notch on Friday as they add shoulder pads to the mix, allowing for more hitting and contact drills.

NOTE: Chanticleer football players, want to know your statistics while you played? Click the following link (which can also be found on the football page of GoCCUSports.com under the "2010 Team Info" section on the upper right) to assorted career, season and single-game statistics for the years from 2003-09.

Coastal Carolina Football History