August 07, 2003
The Texas A&M football team continued to install its offensive and defensive schemes despite not wearing full pads Thursday at the grass practice facility near Kyle Field.
The Aggies practiced for approximately three hours in shorts and helmets in the early afternoon, and coach Dennis Franchione said good teams can accomplish a lot in shorts.
"We're trying to install as much as we can and rep as much as we can," Franchione said. "I've learned that a team can get a lot done in shorts. They are working well together. Good, mature teams know how to practice in shorts at a good tempo. All of the first five days are about installation."
Franchione said ongoing summer school has had an effect on the team's practice schedule.
"We can't practice any earlier because our guys are in class from 8 to 1 p.m.," Franchione said. "We could go later in the day, but we are going to practice at this time when school starts."
New NCAA rules eliminated the three-day orientation period for newcomers which also gave the players a chance to practice without the veterans in camp. Franchione said the new rule has not had a significant effect on his team.
"Most of our freshmen were here for part of the summer," Franchione said. "The impact of not having the three days has not been as significant as we thought. If I had my way, I would have at least one day with the freshmen to let them bond."
Franchione noted the position change of redshirt freshman Bryce Reed from fullback to defensive line.
"I'm trying to get the 22 best players on the field," Franchione said. "In assessing where he could help us the most it was defensive line. He played there in high school."
Reed, from Dallas Samuel High School, was a two-time all-district selection at defensive line. He was named the team's top defensive lineman and most consistent player. As a junior at SHS, he recorded 33 tackles and six tackles for loss.
Reed was listed third on the Aggies' post spring depth chart at full back.
The Aggies will practice once each day until Monday when they will hold two workouts.
A&M is preparing for its first game which is against Arkansas State on Saturday, August 30, at 7 p.m. at Kyle Field.