April 4, 2008

HOUSTON - The University of Houston football team continued spring practice on Friday, hitting the practice field in shorts and shoulder pads as the Cougars got one last workout in before Saturday's scrimmage at Robertson Stadium.

Head Coach Kevin Sumlin ran a spirited practice through a light rain and cool temperatures as he prepped his team for Saturday's intrasquad scrimmage, which is scheduled to begin at 1:30 p.m. and will be open to the public.

"We're making strides -baby steps - but we have improved and we've needed to," Sumlin said. "We have new schemes on offense, defense and special teams. We're trying to get to that stage where guys can play without thinking too much. That's hard, but they are grasping it."

Following Saturday's scrimmage, the Cougars will wrap up spring practice with the annual Red-White Game at noon on Saturday, April 12.

After just a few practices, Sumlin is happy with his team's progress.

"Everybody has had to learn the new schemes, but also the tempo of practice," Sumlin said. "Everyone is still getting used to each other. They're getting used to us as coaches, and we're still getting used to them. We're only 11 practices in, but I'm pleased with our progress so far."