Bulldogs Football: News & Notes

Published online on Wednesday, Aug. 15, 2007

Fresno State held its first practice in 100-plus degree weather Tuesday, much to the chagrin of players but to the delight of coach Pat Hill.

"We got triple digits like we wanted," Hill said. "Really nice and hot."

Hill views practicing in unpleasant weather as a way of toughening his players and a good way to prepare for other hot climates. Fresno State, for example, will play its second game of the season against Texas A&M in College Station, Texas.

Though they understood why Hill's reasons, not all players shared his enthusiasm.

"I can't lie -- it gets hot out here, especially with all the pads on," said receiver Jason Crawley, who is from the Bay Area. "I've been out here for three years now, so you'd think I'd get used to it. But it's still terrible."

How badly does Fresno State want to get back to playing physically?

Its team chaplain, Jamal Jones, goes around practice carrying a mini sledge hammer in his hand. The prop is used to remind players to "bring the hammer."

"It's to get back to playing tough and physical 'Bulldog Football,' " Jones said. "That's promoting violence on the field, not off the field."

To make up for the loss of linebacker Ahijah Lane, true freshman Kyle Knox is rotating practice time between the linemen and linebackers.

The 6-foot-1, 215-pound Knox was recruited as a defensive end but his speed gives his position flexibility.

Highlight

Trying to catch up to a pass from Ryan Colburn, freshman Devon Wylie ran down the sideline to make an over-the-shoulder catch and gain 40 yards. Wylie received a loud cheer from teammates, with offensive lineman Joe Bernardi yelling, "That's why I love him."

Injury Report, Roster Moves

Running back Anthony Harding returned to practice after missing the majority of last week with a strained hamstring.

Harding, who played as a true freshman last year, was expected to challenge for the starting spot until injuries sidelined him most of the spring and summer camp. He is competing with junior Jamaal Rashad and true freshman Ryan Mathews for the No. 2 spot.

Receiver Shannon Dorsey continues to wear a sling around his right arm. Hill said Dorsey suffered a shoulder injury during Saturday's scrimmage.

About six other players also sat out practice with injuries. But Hill said he didn't think any were serious enough to prevent them from missing the Sept. 1 opener.

Audible

"Don't ever quit. You fight to get it back."

-- Defensive line coach Kerry Locklin, talking during a drill against an offensive lineman after one of his young linemen was blocked, then stopped practicing at full speed.