Aug. 7, 2003
COLLEGE PARK, Md. -
The following is the latest in a series of football practice reports for the University of Maryland football team as it prepares for the 2003 season. The reports will run every Tuesday and Thursday, with news and notes from preseason camp.
The Terrapins open the '03 campaign on Thursday, August 28th at Northern Illinois in a game that will be nationally televised by Fox Sports Net before heading to Tallahassee, Fla., for their Atlantic Coast Conference opener at Florida State.
Message From Wednesday & Thursday Has Similar Theme
When head coach Ralph Friedgen met with the media after Wednesday's and Thursday's practice session, he had a lot to say about the performance of his team. Similar themes did emerge each day, however, and the one statement that came to the forefront both days was that of the play of senior quarterback Scott McBrien.
Below are statements Coach Friedgen made from each day's session:
(Wednesday): "I have been pleased with Scott McBrien's play. His decision making and timing are much better than they were a year ago. I am very pleased with the way he has improved considering he was already playing at a high level at the end of last year."
(Thursday): "The guy who is really making progress and continues to catch my eye is Scott McBrien."
Quick Hits
Wednesday
Tailback Bruce Perry had one of the plays of the day, busting a run for about 45 yards. The senior took the handoff, found a hole off of the right side for about 15 yards up the middle, stiff-armed cornerback Domonique Foxworth then cut outside for an extra 30 yards or so before Foxworth could corral him and push him out of bounds around the three-yard line.
Second-year quarterback Sam Hollenbach continued his improvement and had a nice throw over the middle to Curtis Williams.
Thursday
McBrien looked very sharp leading the first team offense, but got some heat from the defensive line. Rob Armstrong was among the players playing well along with two other newcomers, Conrad Bolston and Patrick Powell.
Hollenbach connected with sophomore Dan Melendez for about a 50-yard gain on a post pattern. The throw and catch were both impressive as it came in stiff coverage.
Play was a little rougher, with some scuffles and big hits. Most notably, Perry and safety Madieu Williams went head-up with one another with Williams' helmet popping off by the play's conclusion.
Quote of the Day
"Bruce (Perry) continues to run well. On the defensive side of the ball, Conrad Bolston and Patrick Powell have really caught my eye. They are doing an exceptional job with their pass rush." --Friedgen after Thursday's practice
Preseason Practice Open To The Public
Terrapin fans have a rare opportunity to enjoy watching practice sessions as preseason camp is open to the public. Any fans interested, however, will need to call the football office at (301) 314-7096 and leave your name if interested in attending. Practice will be held this Friday from approximately 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. while Saturday marks the Terps' first two-a-day session with the first practice starting at around 8:00 a.m.
For more information, check the Maryland Gridiron Network website.
