With the NCAA-mandated, five-day acclimation period over, the Georgia Southern football squad held its first practice in full pads Tuesday morning on the banks of Beautiful Eagle Creek. For many of the players, it was their first trip on the Yellow School Buses and running across the bridge and that wasn't lost on head coach Clay Helton, who gathered the team for an impassioned speech after stretching.
Even in full pads, the team only went live for a few periods to stay within the NCAA's allowable full contact numbers outside of scrimmages. While several players on both sides of the ball had nice plays, Helton singled out the play of the running back group as a whole after practice. That room is deep and there are a lot of players who are looking to contribute this year. After playing the App State game with three walk-on running backs, Helton knows the importance of having depth there.
The heat was a factor on Tuesday as a warm-front moved through the area. The team used the Anthony P. Tippins Family Training Facility on Monday and the reviews were outstanding, especially from the training staff. The team lost almost half the weight they usually do during practice on Monday as opposed to a normal day in the heat. With proper hydration and nutrition, this new facility will lead to better and quicker recovery for the team members.
Helton reiterated to the media after practice that there are still 19 practices left until game day and the depth chart is fluid. This can be seen at practice as the coaches continue to rotate players in and out of groups to try and find the best combination.
The Eagles will return to practice on Wednesday and Thursday before taking Friday off to help with Operation Move-In on campus and to prepare for Saturday's scrimmage.
Below is the practice schedule for the remained of preseason for fans who wish to attend. Times and location can change based on weather.
Georgia Southern Preseason Football Schedule
Date (Time, Location)
Wed., Aug. 9: 10 AM (Paulson)
Thurs., Aug. 10: 10 AM (Paulson)
Fri., Aug. 11: OFF
Sat., Aug. 12: 5:30 PM (Scrimmage #1; Paulson)
Sun., Aug. 13: OFF
Mon., Aug. 14: OFF (First day of classes)
Tues., Aug. 15: 9:50 AM (Paulson)
Wed., Aug. 16: 4:20 PM (Eagle Creek)
Thurs., Aug. 17: 9:50 AM (Paulson)
Fri., Aug. 18: 4:20 PM (Paulson)
Sat., Aug. 19: 10 AM (Scrimmage #2; Paulson) ... Time could change
The Fan Fest and Lil' Eagles Clinic will take place on Aug. 12 around the first scrimmage. The Women's Clinic will take place on Aug. 13.
While practices are open to the public and media, we ask you help us keep a competitive advantage by not posting videos and detailed information (including injuries) from practice on social media.
