Bulldog Defense Again Draws Croom's Praise
"It sure was a pretty day today, wasn't it?" Croom said following thethree-hour practice. The workout was performed in conditions that were instark contrast to Monday's cool temperatures and overcast ceiling.
"I liked the defense again today," Croom said. "I thought (defensivetackle) Avery Hannibal (LaGrange, Ga.) had a good day. He is strong and ahard worker. If there is anybody on this team that deserves good things tohappen to him, it is Avery," he continued. "I like them all, but he's oneof my favorites."
Croom also called out defensive tackle Deljuan Robinson (Hernando, Miss.),linebacker Clarence McDougal and newcomer cornerback Keith Fitzhugh(Hampton, Ga.) for their Tuesday work.v"We will definitely put more speed on the field on defense next year,"Croom said, "and speed covers up for a lot of other deficiencies."
The head coach also mentioned that center Chris McNeil (Petal, Miss.) was inthe midst of a good spring, but worried that the departure of starting lefttackle David Stewart had created an awfully big hole to fill.
One player who will not be available to plug that gap is Donovan Davis(Jackson, Miss.), who informed Croom prior to Tuesday's workout that he wasleaving the Bulldog program.
"Donovan told me that he did not want to be with us," Croom said, "and Iwished him the best of luck. Our program is not for everyone and if someonedoes not want to be here, it's best that they relocate. Those who stay willwin."