The Alabama State University football team had a two-hour practice Wednesday afternoon under the hot glistening sun at Hornet Stadium.

The Hornets practiced in full pads continuing to prepare for the Sept. 3 season opener at Mississippi Valley State.

“Work today was decent,” head coach Reggie Barlow said of practice. “We modified some things with the schedule, but all in all guys are working. We're a little thin at offensive line, but they are working hard at that spot and I'm appreciative of that. We're about 10 days away from the opener and we still have a number of situational things to get to.”

This week, Alabama State began specifically practicing against Mississippi Valley State's offense, defense and special teams philosophies.

“We are going over some of the things that Valley likes to do,” Barlow said.  “It's important for us to communicate that to our guys so they know we're preparing now. We're going to continue to get the work in and make sure we're on top of things.”

The Delta Devils run offensive schemes similar to Alabama State, which Barlow believes can assist with his team's preparation.

“On defense, it's about how we line up,” Barlow said. “A zone read (offense) is a zone read (offense), whether you are reading the end or reading the tackle. It's a similar concept. By us running that type of offense, it gives our defensive line a chance to react to the quarterback, and it gives the rest of our defense a chance to get a good look at it. Naturally, there will be some things Mississippi Valley State will do that we will make adjustments to as the game goes on.”  

The Hornets return to practice at 11 a.m. Thursday. 

-HORNETS-