Aug. 14, 2000

MEXICO, Mo. - The Missouri Tigers opened up the offense during the second practice on Monday afternoon at Missouri Military Academy in Mexico, Mo. The Tigers spent most of the practice working on their four and five wide receiver sets, something that Missouri fans may take a little time getting used to.

In one-on-one drills, Missouri's blazing fast receivers put on a show for the fans. Travis Garvin, Eric Spencer and Justin Gage all caught several deep throws by Tiger quarterbacks Kirk Farmer, Jimmy Dougherty and Darius Outlaw. Missouri's two freshman speed demons, Marcus James and Tay Jackson also gave the fans a glimpse of the future. James had a spectacular practice, catching nearly every ball that was thrown his way.

Maybe the most pleasing aspect of the practice was the play of senior wide-out John Dausman. The Knob Noster, Mo. native missed all of last season with a torn knee ligament and practiced during the spring at less than 100 percent. Dausman proved on Monday that he is again healthy by making catch-after-catch whether being a sideline route or in traffic. Dausman was tired following practice and was pleased with his breakout performance.

HOT SHOT: While warming up the quarterbacks by running general pass routes, junior Eric Spencer decided to show-off a little bit by catching a 30-yard pass from Farmer with one hand down the sideline. Spencer got an immediate chewing from Coach Andy Hill exclaiming "use two hands!"

BACK ON THE FIELD: Sophomore safety Gary Anthony returned to practice for the first time this season. Anthony, who is slotted to start at strong safety this season for Mizzou, missed the first seven practices due to tonsillitis.

IN THE CROWD: Director of Athletics Mike Alden enjoyed the afternoon practice with his father Bill.