115 players report for Lions

August 08, 2008 12:25 am

— By Jim Henry
jhenry@joplinglobe.com
NCAA rules permit football teams to practice in helmets only during the first two days of practice.
“You’re real limited on what you can do in terms of 11-on-11,” Missouri Southern head coach Bart Tatum said. “It’s all non-contact ... you’re handcuffed a little bit in terms of what you can do.
“It is frustrating, but it is necessary. I’m at peace with the rule.”
The Lions’ squad — approximately 115 — held their first practice of fall camp on Thursday morning at Fred G. Hughes Stadium.
“Day one went pretty good,” Tatum reported. “It appeared we got pretty good effort from most of our key players. Our top 25-30 guys are in good condition and ready to go.”
The Lions, 6-5 last season and 11-11 in two years under Tatum, return 46 lettermen, including nine starters on defense, eight on offense plus the placekicker and punter.
The Lions have another practice in helmets today, then two workouts in helmets and shoulder pads before going in full pads for the first time.
Missouri Southern, picked seventh in the MIAA coaches preseason poll, opens its season at home against Harding (Ark.) on Aug. 30.

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