April 11, 2000

On the team: "We have made a lot of progress. The team has really come (to practice) prepared. There has been tremendous improvement in all phases of the game (from the first scrimmage to the second)."

On the defense: "The defense has been able to pick it up a notch. The secondary has solidified which has helped our defense. Tackling has improved tremendously. Justin Smith looks to be the best he's ever been. He is very difficult to block on offense. We have been able to develop depth on defense. We should have a better, more versatile defense in the fall. People are making plays and putting pressure on the quarterbacks."

On cornerback John McPherson: "John's got great speed. He has adapted to the cornerback position quite well."

On the offense: "(With the new offensive system) we have come in cold. We have not caught on all the way, but we are catching on. The players have come in with wide-open attitudes. The defense has shown them no mercy. The offense has been able to progress. They are going to help the whole football team. We have started laying the groundwork for our season with playmakers in play-making positions. With five receivers, we have a great combination of speed and size. That gives us a tremendous advantage. I want us to do nothing but get better."

On the quarterbacks: "They are more mature, more experienced. They have put their noses to the grindstone. I have seen improvement in every practice. (Kirk Farmer's) quickness does not look like it has slowed one bit."

On who will start at quarterback this fall: "I can't dictate or predict anything (beyond the depth chart created following the Black and Gold game)."

On quarterback turned wide receiver Justin Gage: "He gives us more athleticism on offense. He adapts quickly and has a good football sense."

On wide receiver John Dausman: "He's a guy that the whole football team respects. He got himself back on the field at the end of last season. He has not missed a beat. He has not missed one practice. He makes plays and he is an excellent leader."

On special teams: "We have been able to solidify the punt team but are still searching for a punt returner. We plan on using three kickers on special teams."