OXFORD, Miss. – The defense responded to head football coach Ed Orgeron’s challenge and highlighted Friday morning’s practice, which was the third day in full pads at the practice fields adjacent to Vaught-Hemingway Stadium/Hollingsworth Field.

“I challenged the defense this morning,” Orgeron said. “The offense took it to us yesterday (Thursday) and made some big plays. The defense answered the bell today.”

One of the areas on defense that is improving according to Orgeron is the passing game. “They are doing a good job, but, when we put the rush together it’s somewhat of an equalizer,” Orgeron said. “The blitzes are coming in. We have installed about 70 percent of the (defense) package, so we are starting to be able to call some plays now.”

Two of the highly touted freshmen linebackers, Robert Russell and Quentin Taylor, were back on the field today. “They looked good, but they were a little rusty on their assignments,” Orgeron said. “Sometimes when you are not involved, your mindset is not as attentive as it should be. The young guys need to learn that when they are out for a couple of days, they still need to be involved in the installation (of the defense).”

The Rebels will go in full pads again Friday afternoon as the temperatures soar into the high 90s.

Ole Miss Athletics Media Relations August 12, 2005