March 18, 2003

Houston, Texas - The Cougar football team hit the field this afternoon to begin the second week of spring practice. Early on it looked as though the Cougars would not be practicing outdoors, as torrential rains pounded the Houston area during midday; however, by late afternoon the skies parted and the rain subsided to allow UH to get in some quality work on the UH practice fields.

For about two-and-a-half hours the Cougars worked a series of drills in a multitude of situations. Both the offense and defense -- which are being revamped this year -- looked good, even with only one week of practice under their collective belts. Under the hands-on approach of new UH head coach Art Briles, the offense presents a unique and innovative look, with both senior Nick Eddy and sophomore Barrick Nealy running the first-team offense.

Defensively, coordinator Ron Harris has the defense playing hard and smart. The switch to a 4-3 has shifted the spotlight from the secondary to the linebackers, and seniors Damien West and Justin Davis and sophomore Bryant Brown have thrived in the scheme.

The Cougars will return to the practice fields again on Thursday and Friday before embarking upon their second scrimmage of the spring on Saturday beginning at 10 am.