By REGGIE BENSON, Times Sports Staff
Bulldogs looking for answers to several questions
Since Alabama A&M began preseason practice just more than two weeks ago, a number of the starters have been decided. Still, some spirited battles remain unanswered as the Bulldogs inch closer to their season opener at Tennessee State on Sept. 1.
The questions include:
Will Kevin McCants be able to hold off Generion McWhorter as the starting fullback? McWhorter has come on of late with McCants nicked up a little bit.
What newcomers will be in the playing rotation at receiver? A&M lost three of its top four pass-catchers from a year ago and Anthony Mitchell still hasn't been cleared academically.
Who will provide depth along the offensive line? The five starters have been identified, but three subs have to be found.
Will Whitney Garrett be able to hold off Justin Harper at defensive tackle? Garrett has taken control the last couple of days because Harper, who started last season, has been unable to practice.
"We're still evaluating because we have two weeks before we play and anything can happen," said A&M coach Anthony Jones, whose scrimmage tonight will serve as sort of a dress rehearsal for the opener. "For us to slam the door on the more spirited competition wouldn't be wise.
"We have an idea who we think can play and now we've got to get them ready."
A&M's offense has held the upper hand in the Bulldogs' first two scrimmages, but defensive coordinator Brawnski Towns has been without some of his front-line players.
Defensive end Chris Traylor and cornerback Frank Moore, a pair of preseason All-SWAC selections, had been demoted, while cornerback Stephan Tucker missed Tuesday's scrimmage with an ankle injury. Traylor and Moore are expected back tonight when A&M's holds its third scrimmage at Louis Crews Stadium. Tucker remains questionable.
"We've been lacking a little intensity," inside linebacker Avery Moland said. "Hopefully, we'll play with some (today)."
Tonight's scrimmage, which will start about 6:30, will cap Fan Day activities at Louis Crews Stadium. Fans are asked to come out beginning at 3 to meet all of A&M's fall sports teams. Photo opportunities will be available in the Bulldog Tunnel and those interested in tailgating can do so in the South end zone. Donations for Operation Elmore, A&M's attempt to renovate Elmore Gym, will be collected.
"This will be our first step toward preparing for Tennessee State," Jones said. "We're going to simulate a game-like situation. We want our players to get used to the time frame and playing under the lights. Hopefully, we'll have a crowd so we can get some distractions to get in the atmosphere of what it will be like at a game."
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