Jayhawks Invite Fans to Football Practice

March 14, 2005

LAWRENCE, Kan. — All Jayhawk fans wanting to get an early glimpse at the 2005 KU football team are invited to attend KU’s practice Wednesday afternoon on the grass practice fields, immediately west of Hoglund Ballpark. The practice will begin at approximately 3:40 p.m.

Who to watch — Linebacker Nick Reid returns to the KU lineup after ending the 2004 season ranked second in the Big 12 with 9.9 tackles per game. He was just one of two Big 12 players to average more than 9.5 tackles per contest. He was also fifth in the conference with an average of 1.23 tackles for loss per contest.

In his first full year on the defensive side of the ball, cornerback Charles Gordon finished the 2004 season tied for the national lead with seven interceptions (Chris Harris from Louisiana-Monroe also picked off seven passes in 11 games during the 2004 campaign). No other Jayhawk has collected more INTs in a season since 1951. Gordon, who was named third-team All-America for his efforts as a sophomore in 2004, also led the Big 12 with 15 passes defended.

Fourth-year Head Coach Mark Mangino and the Jayhawks will conclude spring practice on April 16 when the team hosts its annual Spring Game at 3 p.m. in Memorial Stadium.

— KU —