RELEASE DATE: 8/15/05
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: FOOTBALL GOES IN FULL PADS FOR FIRST TIME IN PRESEASON CAMP -- OFFENSIVE LINE SHOWS EARLY PROMISE

MANSFIELD -- The Mountaineers hit the field for the first time in full pads this morning after the end of the NCAA mandated five day acclimation period.

It was a great day to go in full pads with the weather final breaking from the mid-90s temperatures and near 100% humidity over the first five days. Monday's temperature was in the 70s with low humidity.

Although camp is still young, a revamped offensive line that has to replace three four-years starters, drew positive commits from defensive linemen. The "O" line also got a boast from the addition of new assistant line coach Daniel Hopkins, who has served on the staffs at Temple, Tennessee-Martin and Millersville before joining the staff at Mansfield late last week.

In accordance with NCAA regulations, the Mountaineers will go twice-a-day on the field for the first time on Tuesday and will be allowed twice-a-day practice every other day. Photo Day is set for Sunday, Aug. 21.

Preseason All-American Jamar Foulks & Coach Hopkins