Fresno State Athletics
Football Looks Sharp in Final Scrimmage
8/15/2002 12:00:00 AM | Football
Aug. 13, 2002
FRESNO, Calif. - Despite some key players missing, the Fresno State football scrimmage was once again crisp as the Bulldogs prepare for their Aug. 23 season opener at No. 23 Wisconsin. The Bulldogs went through a 90-minute scrimmage with the second unit and rookies getting the bulk of the work. The starting unit spent time working on various game situations, including the two-minute drill and compete zone.
"We accomplished a lot tonight," said head coach Pat Hill. "We have some talented players on this football team and some extremely talented young players. Getting them a lot of reps and in as many game-like situations will be critical as we progress through the long season."
Junior quarterback Jeff Grady continues to be impressive directing the first unit of offense. He was once again accurate and showed excellent arm strength in the short and medium range passing game.
"Jeff has had a real good camp," Hill said. "He's going to be a very good quarterback for us. He's very smart and knows the offense. He's like a coach on the field and he rarely makes mistakes."
Some key Bulldogs did not participate in the scrimmage for a variety of reasons: cornerback Kendall Edward (knee tendonitis) and defensive end Brian Morris sat out the scrimmage. Edwards is expected to return to practice tomorrow while Morris is expected to miss several weeks with a high ankle sprain. Head coach Pat Hill announced running back Derrick Ward, the starter coming out of spring drills, will miss his senior season due to academic deficiencies.
The Bulldogs began two-a-day practices Aug. 2 and will continue through Aug. 15, at which time they will begin preparation for the season opener Aug. 23 at 23rd-ranked Wisconsin.
Fresno State's home opener is scheduled for Aug. 29 against former WAC rival San Diego State. The Bulldogs and Aztecs have not played since the 1998 season, the year before San Diego State left the WAC for the Mountain West Conference.
Fresno State is coming off an 11-3 record and a No. 23 national regular season ranking. The Bulldogs have played in a bowl game for three consecutive years. The Bulldogs received votes in both the preseason USA Today/ESPN Coaches Poll and the AP polls.
Season tickets for the 2002 campaign are still available but going fast. Tickets can be ordered through the Bulldog Ticket Office (559) 278-DOGS or online at www.gobulldogs.com. Single game tickets for the San Diego State game, which went on sale Monday, have been selling fast.
