Aug. 10, 2003

WACO, Texas - Baylor's football squad donned shoulder pads, helmets and thigh boards for Sunday afternoon's practice, but the Bears remained in shorts. First-year head coach Guy Morriss said it is unlikely the team will ever go in full pads during preseason drills.

"We can't afford to get anybody hurt," Morriss said. "I think we're getting the kind of work we need with the thigh boards. As long as they're practicing smart, we'll keep them in shorts. I think it helps them psychologically, too."

Sunday's practice did feature more contact, though, as the defense begins to rev its engines.

"The defense had a good day all the way through the practice," Morriss said. "The offense was dragging a little bit, but the last half-hour was good. They picked it back up. We're throwing a lot at them right now."

Monday marks the first day of alternating two-a-days. The Bears practice once Tuesday, followed by two sessions Thursday. That schedule will continue for the next two weeks, save single sessions Saturdays and Sundays. All practices are open to the public.

"It's going to be interesting tomorrow night to see how they react to two practices," Morriss said. "But I think they'll be fine. They really want to win; they're doing everything we've asked them to do, and they're doing it at a good tempo and with a good attitude."

The 2003 season begins Aug. 30 as the Bears host UAB at Floyd Casey Stadium.