Aug. 30, 2005

(On upcoming game against Navy):
"I think that everyone is pretty excited about the game coming up, and it is going to be a great thing for the state of Maryland. Not only will both institutions involved benefit from it, but I think high school football will benefit from it."

(On ending camp):
"We had a good camp. I think we made some good progress. We'll have to see just how much progress on Saturday. I am a little nervous because I don't know how this team will respond, but I think they've worked hard and they've had a good camp. I'm very pleased with our quarterback play, and the play of our defense."

(On quarterback Sam Hollenbach):
"Not to put anymore pressure on Sam, but I think he really has improved from where he was in the spring. I see that he's seeing things better; his decision making is very good; his accuracy is probably as good as we've had since I've been here. The biggest thing Sam has to do now is take it from the practice field to the game. The kids have a lot of confidence in him, because he is such a solid kid. I know he'll do well."

(On atmosphere at M&T Bank Stadium):
"Back in the 80's, we played at Memorial Stadium, I think we played Clemson, and the place used to rock. It literally shook, and I think that only held 60,000. So, I think our kids are in for a real treat, and I think this will be a tremendous college atmosphere. I'm looking forward to it, and the kids should be too."

(On Maryland-Navy Rivalry)
"Anytime you have two major college football teams located 30 miles from each other, it has to be a rivalry. When I was going to school here, we always talked about the Navy game. When we played them in anything it would be a big rivalry. To me, it presents opportunities from so many different aspects: from state pride, to high school football, to the financial aspect. There are so many positives. Coming from Georgia-Georgia Tech, and seeing what that rivalry is like, I don't think we will be at that level right now, with one game, but we'll get there over a period of time. Navy has a great coach, and he has brought them back. Now they're coming off a 10 win season. It will be a great game for both programs."